Thoughts on last night and us generally

It's a shame that the match wasn't played on a calm night, as I think it could have been a cracker and I think we would have won. Fair play to Sunderland, they didn't come to kick us or stifle the game which is a refreshing change. We had the better chances and were overall the better team, but I don't think we were necessarily that much better that we can feel aggrieved with a draw. For me this was a must not lose match and I am happy with a point, especially given the conditions.

Since Moore has been out we haven't conceded a goal from open play in 6 matches. I don't think that's a coincidence. Not in the sense that Moore weakens our defence, but in the sense that Stendel realised that with less firepower clean sheets are of increased importance and we need to be doubly strong and well-drilled at the back. Credit to the players too obviously.

Bahre is frustrating. He's very technically gifted yet perversely it seems to be the easiest things he gets wrong. It's like he's got ADHD or thinks that a 10 yard pass is beneath him. If we can get him fully focused and firing mentally at all times there's definitely a player in there though.

Mowatt continues to be outstanding. It's going to be a very tough choice between him and Pinnock for player of the season.

 

To be fair to Sunderland, I don't think they were in a position to do that. They needed a win and by letting us play free-flowing football but keeping it tight at the back, it gave them a better chance of getting something on the break.

 

I've heard it said a few times that Sunderland needed a win. I don't think that's true at all. Win their game in hand they are a point behind us with 27 points to play for.

I think both teams didn't want to lose.