Sunderland Urged to Adopt More Pragmatic Winning Strategy

Former Sunderland defender Gary Bennett contends that the Black Cats must begin playing with a more “uglier” style to reignite a winning streak. The 1-1 draw against Bristol City on Tuesday, where Patrick Roberts secured a point in stoppage time, marked Sunderland’s sixth draw in their last eight Championship matches. “Sometimes you’ve got to learn how to win ugly,” Bennett stated during an appearance on BBC Radio Newcastle. He elaborated, “We are just looking for that so-called perfect goal, aren’t we? Where we can walk the ball into the net, or it’s a flick, or it’s a volley.” Bennett added, “It’s not an ugly goal like what Bristol City scored.” Bristol City, referred to as the Robins, gained a 1-0 advantage in the 68th minute following defensive errors that allowed Luke McNally to score. Roberts then netted an equalizer in time added on, maintaining the team’s undefeated home record, yet Bennett believes the squad’s refined play is becoming excessively detrimental. Addressing Bristol City’s goal, he remarked, “Clear the ball. We are too nice. We had three options to clear that ball and it ends up in the back of the net.” The complete post-match reaction is available for listening on BBC Sounds.