Sunderland player ratings vs Augsburg: Robin Roefs shines, 5/10 frustrates
Sunderland continued their preparations for their first Premier League season in eight years with a 1-0 win against Augsburg on Saturday.
The Mackems have struggled in preseason, having lost four games and drawn one, which has caused some supporters to worry.
However, Regis Le Bris‘ side enjoyed a win against German Bundesliga side Augsburg at the WWK ARENA (9 August) in their penultimate friendly and will be looking to get off to the perfect start against West Ham in their Premier League opener at the Stadium of Light on Saturday, 16 August.
Roefs shows plenty of confidence vs Augsburg
Roefs has had a confident start to life with the Mackems after signing from Dutch side NEC.
The Dutchman explained why Sunderland signed him in the win against Augsburg, with a notable first-half penalty save.
The keeper’s comfort in collecting crosses and creating fast counters with his distribution proved useful against the Germans.
It made a difference for the Mackems having a confident goalkeeper in the net, in Roefs, with Anthony Patterson facing an uphill battle to regain his spot as Sunderland’s number one.
Le Bris does have an issue to sort in defence, however, with the wing-backs allowing for too many crosses to be taken.
Mayenda outshone by Simon Adingra
Mayenda recently signed a new five-year contract to remain at the Stadium of Light, amid a summer of uncertainty.
The winger has been linked with several clubs but chose to show his commitment to the Wearside club.
However, his first outing since signing the extension wasn’t so fruitful for the Spaniard, as he fired over from the penalty spot in the first half.
Mayenda then went on to miss a one-on-one opportunity just minutes later.
The 20-year-old was outperformed by fellow forward Simon Adingra, who has shown plenty of promise since he arrived from Brighton.
The Ivorian showed his potential, with some pacey runs and intricate dribbling, which was rewarded by his first-half assist for Habib Diarra’s goal.
Sunderland will play another friendly against Rayo Vallecano (10 August) before returning to England ahead of the start of the Premier League season.
Sunderland player ratings v Augsburg
Robin Roefs- 8
Trai Hume- 6
Dom Ballard- 7
Jenson Seelt- 7
Reinildo- 6
Granit Xhaka- 8
Noah Sadiki- 7
Habib Diarra- 8
Chemsdine Talbi- 6
Simon Adingra- 8
Eliezer Mayenda- 5
Substitutes
Jenson Jones (80)- 6
Timur Tutierov (84)- 6
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