Shay Given gives special mention to Liverpool star after what ‘brilliant’ Sunderland player did at Anfield
Shay Given was full of praise for Robin Roefs once again in Sunderland’s draw with Liverpool.
Had it not been for Nordi Mukiele’s unfortunate own-goal, Sunderland could have easily taken all three points from Anfield on Wednesday night.
Chemsdine Talbi, who has come in for a lot of unfair criticism already this season, gave the Black Cats the lead, but it was his error that led to Florian Wirtz having an effort deflected beyond Roefs.
However, despite conceding the goal, Sunderland’s shotstopper earned his plaudits for a moment late in the game.
Wilson Isidor had golden chance to seal three points for Sunderland
Brian Brobbey was handed a start against Liverpool, but top scorer Wilson Isidor was introduced on the hour mark with the Dutchman evidently starting to show some signs of fatigue.
The Frenchman had little impact in the game until Roefs set him on his way with a delightful through ball, for Isidor to see his effort blocked by Federico Chiesa.
Isidor will feel as though he could have done more with the chance, but Given was full of praise for Chiesa’s reaction, as well as the initial ball from Roefs.
Via Match of the Day, he said: “It could have been a real sucker punch at the end. This was injury time, Roefs obviously collects this ball. He’s had a brilliant season, actually, as a young goalkeeper.
“Watch this for a pass. He’d be disappointed not to score, but Chiesa deserves a special mention. I know he’s an offensive player, but watch Chiesa here. He could have given this up.”
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Robin Roefs played a crucial role in Sunderland draw vs Liverpool
Aside from the pass in the latter stages, Roefs was once again solid in goal for Sunderland.
Via FotMob, he prevented 0.75 xG with four saves in the game, though the biggest contribution was his ability to claim crosses.
The Dutchman claimed five crosses into the penalty area, relieving the pressure on the defenders placed in front of him.
That was often the main criticism of Anthony Patterson, who is yet to feature for the Black Cats in the Premier League.
Roefs has been instrumental in Sunderland’s success so far this season, and that will no doubt continue.
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