Sunderland dropped two points in the race for a play-off place as they were held at home by Huddersfield Town. The Black Cats went in front through Joe Gelhardt in the first half, but they did not make the most of the chances they created to put the game to bed before the interval.
And when the Terriers came out revitalised in the second period, they got back on terms through Josh Koroma on the hour. Sunderland tried to get their noses back in front but could not find a way through.
The draw meant Sunderland moved up one place to eighth in the table and cut the gap between themselves and the top six to a single point, but several of their rivals are in action tomorrow and that gap is likely to widen again. As for Huddersfield, they are now two points clear of the drop zone as their renaissance under Neil Warnock continues.
READ MORE: Sunderland's play-off hopes dented by relegation battlers Huddersfield Town
Here's how our Sunderland AFC writer James Hunter rated the players.
Anthony Patterson 7
Made a couple of decent saves and could do nothing about the goal
Trai Hume 6
Back in his usual right-back role and did OK
Danny Batth 7
Solid at the back, but the fact he was forced off injured late in the game is a worry
Luke O'Nien 7
Returned to the starting XI and did his usual reliable job at centre-back
Lynden Gooch 6
Played left back and did OK. Brought a good save out of Vaclik in the first half
Dan Neil 7
Worked hard as the anchor midfielder just in front of the back four
Amad 7
Brilliant through-ball for Gelhardt's goal, but missed a glorious chance himself in the first half
Patrick Roberts 5
Not at his best and struggled to make an impact
Alex Pritchard 6
Did his best to help Sunderland find a way through against one of his old clubs
Jack Clarke 7
Always a threat down the left flank and he put some dangerous balls into the box
Joe Gelhardt 7
Scored on his return to the starting XI and his all-round contribution was excellent
Subs
Isaac Lihadji 6
For Gelhardt 73mins. OK, but not more
Tom Watson N/A
For Roberts 87mins.
Joe Anderson N/A
For Batth 90mins.
Not used: Bass, Ba, Ekwah, Taylor
READ NEXT
- Tony Mowbray on Amad's future and how he could return to Sunderland next season
- Mowbray says Joe Gelhardt 'understands' why he has been left on Sunderland bench
- Sunderland issue statement after identifying Birmingham fan who threw a flare
- Alex Pritchard happy to take on new role as Sunderland challenge for play-offs
