Sunderland still have major concern despite positive result vs Crystal Palace
Sunderland have one area of their game that needs to improve significantly.
It has been a near-perfect start to life for Sunderland in the Premier League, with seven points from a possible 12.
Sunderland’s 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace was a brilliant result all things considered, and highlighted the strength that they have when it comes to defensive solidity.
However, while that shone at Selhurst Park, another aspect of the game failed to follow suit, and it is something that Regis Le Bris simply has to solve in the coming weeks.
Sunderland fail to pose a threat vs Crystal Palace
Le Bris’ side are going to struggle to create chances this season; that is the nature of the Premier League as a newly promoted side.
However, Sunderland have a serious concern when it comes to creativity, having registered the lowest xG from open play out of all 20 teams.
Given the fact that the Black Cats have scored five goals, it has somewhat been overlooked, but they cannot afford to ride their luck as they have in front of goal throughout the season.
Players like Chemsdine Talbi and Simon Adingra need to offer far more in the final third, though the latter showed plenty of promise at Selhurst Park.
The longer these concerns linger, the harder it will be for Sunderland to pick up crucial points like that on Saturday afternoon.
Sunderland’s game by numbers vs Crystal Palace
Saturday’s clash at Selhurst Park was even up until the final 20 minutes, when Robin Roefs was forced into some incredible saves to deny the hosts the advantage.
Once again, defensively, Sunderland were great, but going forward, less so.
Via Sofascore, the Black Cats failed to create any big chances in the game, compared to Crystal Palace’s three.
In fact, Dean Henderson wasn’t forced into a single save throughout the encounter.
The Wearsiders had three corners and 10 free kicks, but again, failed to make them count in any area of the pitch.
With a home encounter against Aston Villa up next, Sunderland need to change that and extend their winning run at the Stadium of Light.
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