Phil Smith's Sunderland AFC player ratings v RC Lens as impressive quartet earn eight out of 10 | OneFootball

Sunderland recorded an eye-catching pre-season win over last season’s Coupe de France winners RC Lens, sealed by second-half goals from Trai Hume and Wilson Isidor.

The Black Cats edged a tight first half with little goalmouth action, then raised the tempo after the break to clinch it in their penultimate friendly.

Goalkeeper Robin Roefs had little to do, but his handling and distribution were calm when required. He was rated six.

Debutant Thomas Meunier impressed. He might have been a little unlucky to see a goal ruled out for a foul, pressed high and, though nutmegged once, that moment created opportunities for his team. Very assured, he was rated eight.

Dan Ballard delivered a good display as he stepped up to 60 minutes, dealing with one or two early threats and looking sharper as the game went on. He was rated six.

Luke O’Nien was excellent, making important interventions in the air and on the ground while keeping the ball moving. On this evidence he looked in pole position to start the campaign, you would have to say.

Source: Sunderland Echo

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”