Regis Le Bris makes ‘positive’ admission despite Sunderland draw v Bristol City
Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris praised his side’s “positive” first-half performance against Bristol City despite their inability to secure three points on Tuesday night.
The Black Cats were held to a 1-1 draw at the Stadium of Light on 10 December, failing to use the momentum from their previous 2-1 win against Stoke City.
A 93rd-minute equaliser from Patrick Roberts secured a last-gasp point for the Black Cats with what could prove to be a crucial one in their bid for automatic promotion but Le Bris, as quoted by The Chronicle (10 December), was pleased with the first-half showing.
“We dominated the game, started well with good tempo,” Le Bris admitted.
“The way we wanted to play with many switches, played into the triangles, created chances. Probably we had a lack of players or bodies in the box to receive the crosses.
“I think the first half was positive and the second half was a little bit different because they changed their shape and defended in a different way.
“Overall, the game I think we would be frustrated because we were dominant and against this low block we struggled to find the right solution.”
Sunderland attacking woes continue in Bristol City draw
The Black Cats once again demonstrated the game at the Stadium of Light but showcased a complete lack of cutting-edge quality in the final third.
On too many occasions they got into an excellent position in the final third and either failed to execute the final touch or simply made the wrong decision and the chance was squandered.
An injury to Tommy Watson completely unbalanced the game, with Eliezer Mayenda having to switch flanks to facilitate space for substitute Roberts, who would prove to be key for the Black Cats being able to maintain their unbeaten home run.
The draw means Sunderland have now won just one in their last eight, although have only suffered defeat in one of those encounters in a tight contest with Sheffield United.
Le Bris’ side simply need to become more ruthless in the opposition half if they are to have any chances of returning to their early season form which saw them occupy the summit of the Championship for several weeks.
In other Sunderland news, Le Bris has seemingly ruled out a January exit for one Black Cats star.
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