James Copley’s Sunderland player ratings vs Newcastle United at St James’ Park | OneFootball

Sunderland faced a stern Tyne-Wear derby examination at St James’ Park, the contest played at full tilt with the sides close in the Premier League table.

According to Sunderland Echo, Régis Le Bris’ team sought to assert themselves in a hostile setting as Newcastle chased a response after a difficult week, and the occasion carried the expected edge and noise.

Early on, goalkeeper Melker Ellborg hesitated over a goal kick that Anthony Gordon chased and his distribution faltered before the break, though he settled later. Omar Alderete defended soundly, could do nothing about the opener and repeatedly split lines with confident passing.

After the interval, makeshift left-back Trai Hume hooked the ball back for the equaliser, stepping into midfield at times and using it well. Lutsharel Geertruida, starting on the right, was below par before half-time but improved and posed a threat going forward.

Ratings: Ellborg 6, Hume 7, Geertruida 7, Alderete 9, with the centre-back Sunderland’s standout on the day.

Source: Sunderland Echo