Sunderland under 21’s continued their impressive run with a 1-0 over Liverpool at the Stadium of Light thanks to a Michael Ledger header.
The young black cats fielded a strong eleven, with first-teamers Patrick Van Aanholt and Liam Bridcutt handed starts.
The first half was encouraging but frustrating for Sunderland, despite enjoying more possession and were on top for large spells their finishing let them down.
Sunderland were denied an early penalty shout when Van Aanholt drove into the penalty area before being brought down.
During a lively start, Van Aanholt again got in behind Liverpool’s defence but Lynden Gooch saw his effort blocked after a pullback from the Dutchman.
In a move typical of Sunderland’s performance in the first half, Chavrias Mavrias whipped in an inviting cross but nobody in a red and white shirt could get on the end of the cross.
Liverpool rarely threatened at the extent of their first half pressure amounted to a speculative 25 yard effort which sailed wide.
Sunderland were unlucky not to go into the break up after an explosive end to the half, after a good move, Liverpool keeper Fulton made an excellent double save. Lyden Gooch had his initial effort save before Mikel Mandron was denied from the follow-up.
The home side began the second half in the same vain and it wasn’t long before they opened the scoring when Michael Ledger was left unmarked at the back post and the centre-half made no mistake from close range.
As with the first half, Sunderland created plenty of chances but couldn’t add to their lead.
Mikel Mandron will be particularly disappointed not to get his name on the scoresheet as he squandered a couple of decent opportunities.
Despite controlling much of the second period, Sunderland were given a scare of their own when a poor clearance fell to Paulo Alves who dragged his shot wide.
However, Sunderland really should have wrapped things up after Fulton again saved impressively from a powerful Mavrias strike.
But ultimately the one goal was enough and Sunderland ran out deserved winners.
Sunderland: Stryjek, J Robson, (T Robson), Van Aanholt, Bridcutt, Ledger, Brady, Maviras (Greenwood), Agnew, Mandron, Smith (E Robson), Gooch.
Subs not used: Purvis, Blinco
