Sunderland U23s suffered defeat on the road as they were beaten by Wigan Athletic U23s at Christopher Park. A first-half goal from Will Harris meant the young Lads went into half time in front. But an impressive second-half hat-trick from Chris Sze turned the tide with Wigan sealing the three points in Group E of the Premier League Cup. The Lads started with Ollie Younger, Patrick Almond and Arbenit Xhemajli as a back three with Cieran Dunne and Tyrese Dyce as wing backs. After an early Wigan chance, Sunderland got on the front foot and took the lead early in the 10th minute, when Dunne’s cross was headed towards goal by Dyce, and Harris was ready to score the rebound. The Lads had numerous chances to double their lead in the first half, with Ellis Taylor, Harris and Dunne all carving out opportunities, but none could find the net. The home side started well in the second half, grabbing an early goal as Sze flicked on a corner past Jack McIntyre. The Wigan striker doubled his tally for the day in the 68th minute, reacting to a McIntyre save and slotting his chance away. Sze sealed his hat-trick 84 minutes in when he lifted the ball over McIntyre to secure the three points for Wigan. The young Lads have the rest of the week to prepare for their game on Sunday against Southampton when they return to Premier League 2 action. Sunderland AFC: McIntyre, Dyce, Dunne, Younger (Ryder 72’), Xhemajli, Almond, Wilding ©, Wearne, Taylor, Kimpioka, Harris. Subs not used: Carney, Jessup, Middlemas
