Sunderland player ratings as Port Vale advance in FA Cup, with fours and fives dominating | OneFootball

Sunderland were deservedly knocked out of the FA Cup in the fifth round at Vale Park after a poor display. Ben Waine struck in the first half as Port Vale progressed.

According to Sunderland Echo, injuries and suspensions left Le Bris with a threadbare squad, though he still selected the strongest XI available.

Goalkeeper Melker Ellborg had an eventful outing. He headed clear from his own line after an O’Nien backpass almost went in, but then failed to get enough on Waine’s header that followed. He was booked in the second half for bringing down George Hall as he broke through on goal, and was rated five.

At right-back, Lutsharel Geertruida struggled to influence attacks and produced little when he did get forward. He rarely lost duels defensively yet had a quiet game in his favoured role. He was given four.

Dan Ballard competed well and won plenty of headers. He missed two gilt-edged chances at the near post in the second half. His mark was five.

Omar Alderete was Sunderland’s standout by some distance, dominant defensively and one of the few to show quality on the ball. He received seven.

Source: Sunderland Echo