‘So avoidable’ – Sunderland boss bemoans side’s display as Sheffield Wednesday ease to win.

Sunderland didn’t put up much of a fight, falling to Sheffield on Wednesday at the Stadium of Light.

Sheffield Wednesday’s final-day victory over Sunderland secured Championship survival, with Mike Dodds describing their goals as’so preventable’.

The Black Cats had nothing to play for, as they had for several weeks, and it showed as Wednesday took control of the game from the opening. Danny Rohl’s team took the lead through Liam Palmer, but Josh Windass quickly increased the lead, threatening the home side’s victory.

For interim manager Dodds, it was a performance reminiscent of the preceding several months, as it appeared unlikely they would challenge any of the play-off spots, and he looked to both ends of the pitch against Wednesday to explain this specific defeat.

“I told the group that we are where we are in the table and that we deserve it; to be honest, I don’t believe the table lies. We haven’t given the fans something to rejoice about, not just during my term but throughout the season. There have been far too many games this season in which we haven’t lost, and I feel like we’ve thrown the game to the opposition.

“I felt that tonight, in terms of two avoidable goals and then in front of goal, it’s been a very consistent trend throughout the season that we’ve been really snatchy in front of goal and haven’t looked comfortable.

“The table does not lie, so there are some serious takeaways for everyone, and I believe the group understands that certain things must be non-negotiables next season. As players and coaches, we will not accept another season like that.”