Sunderland manager Jack Ross made several changes to his starting eleven for the game against Doncaster Rovers. A change of formation was also made as Ross attempted to get back to winning ways.
The changes brought instant results as the Black Cats ran out two nil winners. Ross made four changes to the side that were beaten 5-4 by Coventry last week. Defensive pair Jack Baldwin and Tom Flanagan were dropped in favour of Jimmy Dunne and Alim Ozturk. Lee Cattermole replaced Grant Leadbitter and Aiden McGeady came in for Will Grigg. The changes also brought a return to Ross’s favoured 4-3-2-1 formation.
Sunderland Manager Jack Ross Makes Changes and Gets Instant Results
Two first-half goals sealed a vital three points for the Black Cats in the League One promotion battle. On loan winger Lewis Morgan scored the first with a fine strike after a knockdown from Charlie Wyke. Later in the half, striker Wyke went from goal maker to goalscorer. The new fan favourite finished off a good move at the back post to give his team a two-goal cushion.
Here is a look at the key areas which give the Sunderland manager Jack Ross instant success.
No-Nonsense Defending
The Black Cats have struggled to keep clean sheets this season. Their defenders, for the most part, have attempted to play the ball out of defence, even in dangerous situations. This has led to chances and goals for the opposition.
Today it appeared that the central defensive pairing of Ozturk and Dunne were advised to keep it simple. If in danger, clear the ball, whether it be upfield or row Z, thus eliminating mistakes. It worked. Very rarely did the visitors threaten to get through the Sunderland backline.
Return of Cattermole and Formation Change
Jack Ross reverted back to his favoured 4-3-2-1 formation. The extra central midfielder gave the defence that extra protection that has been missing of late. The return of Lee Cattermole to give that protection was welcomed by all. The tenacious midfielder marshalled the midfield and defence and with Max Power alongside him, they gave Rovers few opportunities.
The formation change also saw captain George Honeyman return to a central role playing behind the sole striker. Honeyman looked far more comfortable than in his last games when asked to play a wide midfield role.
Aiden McGeady
Influential winger Aiden McGeady returned to the team after missing the last three games through injury. His presence, skill and creativity has been missed and he made a huge difference. Not only did the team look more balanced, but his skill and deliveries from the wing also caused Doncaster problems for the whole time he was on the field. With the Republic of Ireland international, Lee Cattermole back, plus Chris Maguire and Lynden Gooch nearing full fitness, the Black Cats look a much better side.
Charlie Wyke Leads Line Superbly
The change in formation also meant that there was room for just one striker. Jack Ross went with the in-form and new fan favourite Charlie Wyke. The former Bradford City forward led the line superbly. Not only did he score, he battled for every ball, more often than not, coming out on top against the opposition defenders. In the second half, he was replaced by Will Grigg. He came off to a standing ovation, and deservedly so.
Sunderland have four games left. One more than second-placed Barnsley. Should they win these, they will be promoted automatically. If they can perform like they did today, then they have an excellent chance of achieving their target.
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