Match Day Thread Sunderland AFC v Reading FC – Saturday 11th February 2023 - KO 15:00

It wasn't pretty but we found a way.

They came for a point, started timewasting after 6 mins and played for ball to drop off set pieces. Out of possession they had such a rigid 5-3-2 that was difficult to play through, often our play was too pensive and players took too many touches or the quality of the pass was off or the ball through delayed.

The last 20/25 mins we upped the tempo and started to look more likely, eventually the tackle falls kind for Roberts after a good run and we win the game. Far from a classic, a game that won't live long in the memory but an important three points.

Tough game Tuesday given we looked a bit lethargic today, but on we go.

I thought Lihadji looked canny mind, pacey and some superb touches out the sky and in tight areas. I think he'll be very exciting once hes up to speed!

 

In my opinion Roberts is in the wrong trade.....he should be working in a butchers store. With his goal he has got to have sold three pork pies before in went in the back of the net.

 

I get the argument about losing Stewart up front and not getting a replacement but jeez have we got some other fire power up front.....it's frightening some of the quality of goals we have scored this season. Been supporting the lads since the early sixties but I have never seen them fly in the back of the net like there doing at the moment......just off the charts.....f*cking amazing.

 

Agree about Lihadji. Looks to have a great touch and nice balance. Hopefully another that will light up this team. No idea where they all play mind.

 

Big result that, absolutely delighted.

Not seeing the games at the minute, eldest has just turned 4 so I'm taking him to see a different local non-league team each week so he gets used to the environment and, hopefully, will be able to stay in his seat when I take him to see the lads next year. So far he's up to 15-20 mins attention span per half. He was shouting 'come on whites, try your hardest" and "run as fast as you can" today! The innocence of youth!!!

He's def not ready for the Lee Howey chant.

 

Quite right mate, you're spot on ...

... and this team can only improve, it's fabulous after all the shyte we've endured.

 

He’s right. I know it too.
Impressive it isnt!

 

It seems to be rubbing off right across the team. Half expecting the tea lady to come on the next game and hit one from 30 yards straight in the back of the net

 

Was a sitting DM but helped as they totally retreated.

 

Just back with my 7 year old lad. He enjoyed it, even though I was getting very frustrated. Little stop off in the stubble inn on way back for a refreshment.

Spot on really. I know some of you think I moan about the striker, I do. And always will this season ha. But had a great day with the family pre and post game. Got the 3 points too.

Chalk and cheese from the mire of league 1 too!

 

We have just had that moment in our house when everyone looks at each other in that oh no sort of way. My two lads are Derby daft and were talking about sorting out Wembley travel for the play offs. I said I will pay for a hotel for them to stay down and I would see them for a pint when I arrive for Sunderland. My wife is rolling here eyes then jumps up to grab the kitchen calendar. She has booked us a big house on the Kent coast that weekend and her sister and family are joining us for a long weekend . My eldest broke the silence with well I am going to Wembley whatever the rest of you are doing and wandered away with his cup of tea

 

I don't know why but I've got a serious feeling that we'll be at Wembley come May

 

Hey at least the mrs will have company

 

Good stuff mate, what it is all about. Get the lad into footy, will give him a lifetime of memories. My best memories are going to footy wity my Dad and his brothers and their lads when I was a bairn.

 

Made me laugh out loud. Might pick my time to mention it though

 

He has been drifting in and out but seems to be getting it more now which is class. He loves the bait and attention he gets pre and post game game too, so winner for me !

 

It was never in doubt.

 

Jeff Brown