Sunderland secured a morale-boosting victory at the Stadium of Light against Ipswich Town; however, it was far from impressive by Lee Johnson’s team. The Black Cats looked nervous throughout and looked desperate not to lose the game. Two late goals won the game, but it flattered the home side.
Sunderland Back to Winning Ways, but it Was Far From Impressive by Lee Johnson’s Team
A Battling Display by Lee Johnson’s Team, but Far From Perfect
Sunderland were poor for long periods against Ipswich. A change in formation at the start of the game failed to work and was changed during the first half to the credit of head coach Lee Johnson. It was a half that saw Ipswich have more of the ball and the majority of the chances. Thanks to some desperate defending and goalkeeping heroics, Sunderland were happy to go in at half-time still level.
The second half was much more even but both teams struggled to create an opening due to poor passing and final balls. Sunderland’s keeper Thorben Hoffmann had a quiet half and just as it appeared that the game would end level, his teammates found a way through. Luke O’Nien – playing at left-back in the absence of three recognised fullbacks – scored from a corner. A penalty from Aiden McGeady secured a much-needed win.
Despite being a poor display, Sunderland battled throughout and got a much-needed, morale-boosting win.
A Win is a Win
Following Sunderland’s recent poor results and performances, which has seen three league defeats, including 5-1 and 3-0 away defeats, plus being knocked out of the FA Cup by League Two strugglers Mansfield Town, the Black Cats desperately needed a win.
The 2-0 scoreline flattered the home side, who had just two shots on target. However, a win is a win and it could kick start their promotion challenge.
Lee Johnson has been under pressure lately after a collapse in form and results. The result against Ipswich, despite coming from a poor performance, gives him some breathing space. However, with two away games coming on Tuesday and Saturday, Johnson must not let his team slip up.
Lee Johnson Happy After a Tough Spell
Head coach Lee Johnson admitted it had been a tough game following a tough few weeks but was happy with his team. He said: “The players and staff fully deserve that win and I’ve got immense pride in the group and that includes the fans, because it’s been tough.
“We’ve made it tough but in this division only the toughest survive. At times we needed our goalkeeper, at times we should have delivered better than we did. To get a win, after the recent run we’ve had, is really important for us and the project.”
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