Phil Smith's Sunderland AFC player ratings v Brighton | OneFootball

Sunderland slipped to a third straight home defeat as Brighton edged Saturday’s Premier League meeting, decided by Yankuba Minteh’s mishit cross midway through the second half.

Sunderland Echo provides the following player ratings from the game.

Chris Rigg had a goal overruled for offside shortly beforehand.

Goalkeeper Melker Ellborg made a stunning early save from Jack Hinshelwood. He had one or two nervy moments on the ball but largely did well, then was unfortunate when Minteh’s cross flew in. He was rated six.

Right-back Lustsharel Geertruida impressed in the first half, much improved from Port Vale, getting into good areas and defending well. He could not maintain that level deep into the closing stages. He was rated six.

Centre-back Dan Ballard was winning his duels and stepping out confidently before an injury forced him off in the second half. Hopefully it was only a precaution ahead of the derby. He was rated seven.

Omar Alderete was just offside when he set up Rigg’s effort early in the second half. He had been excellent through the first hour and built up play well, then tired and gave the ball away at times. He was rated six.

Source: Sunderland Echo