Clinton Morrison shocked by controversial footage in Sunderland win v Sheff Wed
Clinton Morrison weighed in on the debate surrounding Elizer Mayenda’s controversial opening goal as Sunderland defeated Sheffield Wednesday 2-1 on Friday.
Sunderland emerged as victors at Hillsborough as the visitors carved out the victory thanks to a brace from Mayenda.
The Black Cats’ away win now puts them on 65 points from 35 games, within three points of third-placed Burnley who aren’t in league action this weekend as they take on Preston in the FA Cup..
However, there was definitely an element of contention about their opening goal in South Yorkshire, something Sunderland ace Mayenda was asked about himself after the game.
Mayenda caught up in controversy as Sunderland beat the Owls
Sunderland took the lead in the 34th minute via Mayenda. The Spaniard controlled a long ball from left-back Leo Hjelde, before going past Wednesday defender Max Lowe and finishing past James Beadle.
At first glance, it looked like an exquisite first touch but when carefully looked again, Mayenda appeared to make contact with the ball with his hand. However, no appeals were made from anyone on the pitch and the goal stood.
| Sunderland’s next five fixtures | Home/Away |
| Cardiff City | Home |
| Preston North End | Home |
| Coventry | Away |
| Millwall | Home |
| West Bromwich Albion | Away |
Former Sheffield Wednesday player, Morrison, was left shocked as to how no one from the Wednesday team appealed for the handball and made a plea for the goal to be disallowed.
Morrison told Sky Sports: “I don’t understand how no one in the vicinity appealed.
“It’s a handball and anyway you look at it, it should be disallowed. I just don’t understand how no one’s appealed it.”
Sunderland in the hunt for Premier League promotion
Sunderland are fourth in the Championship table, three points behind Burnley and five behind Sheffield United.
Black Cats manager Regis Le Bris will have his sights on automatic promotion to the Premier League as his side are in close proximity to second placed Sheffield United.
Even if Sunderland fail to secure promotion directly, they are well placed to make it to the Championship play-offs as they are 14 points ahead of fifth and sixth-placed West Brom and Blackburn Rovers.
The Championship side has had a strong start to 2025 as they have managed to win six of their 11 games in 2025 and have been defeated just twice.
Wilson Isidor has played a vital role in Sunderland’s strong form as he has netted 12 goals in 32 Championship games. The Frenchman is the third-highest goalscorer in the league, tied with Callum Robinson of Cardiff City and Josh Maja of West Brom.
Sunderland will next face Cardiff on 8th March at the Stadium of Light.