NafisaSunderland never make things straightforward, do they? The Black Cats are heading to Wembley for the Championship play-off final after Dan Ballard netted a dramatic late header to shatter Coventry City hopes.
It was a tense contest with neither team able to find the breakthrough in the first half, but the Sky Blues applied more pressure after the interval and appeared the more likely to score.
They eventually did when Ephron Mason-Clark found the net with 14 minutes left of regular time, bringing the tie level on aggregate. It wasn’t until extra-time that momentum shifted Sunderland’s way, with scenes of jubilation as Ballard nodded home with the last touch of the match.
Here’s how we evaluated the Black Cats’ performance against Coventry City:
Anthony Patterson – 6
Had minimal involvement and couldn’t have done much about Mason-Clark’s finish.
Trai Hume – 7
Set the standard early with a signature sliding challenge and stayed solid at the back. However, was caught out when Mason-Clark netted Coventry’s goal.
Dan Ballard – 9
Outstanding yet again. If his away performance impressed, this was a step above. Dominated everything in his path. A true captain’s performance, capped with a last-gasp goal.
Luke O’Nien – 7
Defended steadily but was occasionally careless in possession during crucial moments. Came up with a vital tackle late in extra-time to snuff out a dangerous Coventry move.
Dennis Cirkin – 6
Reliable as ever and did well to nullify Tatsuhiro Sakamoto early on, although the Coventry winger became more influential, with the goal originating from Cirkin’s side.
Dan Neil – 6
Put in a good shift beside Jobe, but lacked sharpness in decision-making. Missed a big chance to release Mayenda in the second half.
Jobe Bellingham – 7
Took control of the midfield for large spells, showcasing his strength. Needed more end product but impressed in extra-time.
Patrick Roberts – 5
As in the first leg, had to track back frequently but offered little going forward.
Enzo Le Fee – 6
Tried to spark some creativity but was burdened with defensive duties. Improved when shifted into a central role.
Wilson Isidor – 6
Booked early for simulation and couldn’t get into the rhythm. Saw more of the ball after the break but his choices in the final third let him down.
Eliezer Mayenda – 8
Looked dangerous throughout the first half, using his speed to unsettle Coventry’s defence. Clearly Sunderland’s top attacking threat on the night.
Substitutes
Chris Rigg – 6
Added fresh legs and energy after replacing the ineffective Isidor.
Romaine Mundle – 7
Brought urgency and directness that had been missing. Nearly grabbed a goal in extra-time.
Leo Hjelde – N/A
Nafisa
