It’s rare that a week goes by at Sunderland without plenty to talk about. The past week has, once again, been no exception. This week’s Sunderland weekly roundup takes a look at the last two fixtures. Games which were both disappointing and frustrating.
We also look at manager Jack Ross who is becoming increasingly under pressure. There is also more takeover talk, the latest from the ladies and academy teams.
Sunderland Weekly Roundup: Jack Ross Under Pressure
Rotherham United Earn Draw at Stadium of Light
After returning to winning ways away at Accrington Stanley, the Black Cats faced Rotherham at home. It was a chance to keep in touch with the top of the table; however, after a bright start, the game ended all square. Marc McNulty gave Sunderland the best possible start, scoring after just 31 seconds. Aiden McGeady had a glorious chance to extend the lead from the penalty spot. His poor penalty was easily saved.
Rotherham grew into the game and in the second half were the better team. It was of little surprise when United equalised. Both sides had chances to win; however, it was a disappointing performance and result after an excellent start.
Disappointing Draw at Bolton Wanderers
The Black Cats travelled to bottom club Bolton Wanderers at the weekend. Bolton were close to going out of business earlier this season and have seen a huge change in their playing staff. The home side had failed to score at home and had for the most part, been League Ones whipping boys.
Sunderland were expected to win and ideally produce a convincing display. In the end, fans saw neither. Bolton were more than a match for the visitors and took the lead. Sunderland pressed for an equaliser and had to wait until added on time in the second half to salvage a point. Aiden McGeady made up for his miss against Rotherham by easily dispatching his penalty.
Ross Under Pressure
Due to recent performances and results, manager Jack Ross has come under increasing pressure. Although his side have lost just once this season, they have failed to keep a clean sheet. For the majority of games, performances have also been below par.
At Bolton, Sunderland, backed by four thousand travelling fans, produced another frustrating performance. Ross came under fire from the fans at the game and across social media. Many calling for him to be sacked.
Sunderland and their fans are desperate to gain promotion this season after failing in the play-off final. Fans are questioning performances, team selections, substitutions, and Ross’s ability to guide their team out of League One. Ross has been in charge for 55 league games, 23 have ended in draws.
Speaking about the recent criticism, Jack Ross said: “Any criticism, give it to me. That’s my job. You make decisions based on how you think players have performed at the time. We then find an equaliser, so whether that justifies it or not I don’t know. It is my job to do that, it is fine, criticism, no problem.”
Takeover Talk
The takeover of Sunderland took a huge step forward this past week. A new company FPP Sunderland Limited as been registered with Companies House. The American trio who are set to obtain a majority share in the club, John Phelan, Glenn Fuhrman and Robert Platek are the directors of the new company. They are set to be joined by computer tycoon Michael Dell who will have a minority share.
Sunderland Weekly Roundup: Ladies News
Sunderland Ladies continued to impress in the FAWNL Cup. After beating local rivals Newcastle United in the last round, the ladies faced Burnley at home on at the weekend. They cruised to a 2-0 victory. Goals either side of halftime sealed their place in the first round proper.
Sunderland Weekly Roundup: Academy Team News
Sunderland Under 23’s are having a tough start to their campaign. Another defeat, this time 1-0 at Swansea City means they are bottom of the table. Sunderland who fielded a strong side ended the game with 10 men. It leaves them winless and with just one point from six games.
Sunderland Under 18’s are not fairing any better. They faced rivals Newcastle on Saturday. The young Black Cats dominated for the majority of the game. However, with full time approaching, they had just a one goal advantage. Sadly for the youngsters, it was not enough. Two late goals saw Newcastle snatch an unlikely victory.
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