ratings vs Portsmouth as Wilson Isidor makes the difference and 8/10 star shines in narrow win

Regis Le Bris started the game with the same lineup, and it paid off after just seven minutes when Wilson Isidor and Eliezer Mayenda’s connection scored the first goal. Although both teams had chances as the game progressed, Southampton may have still had the better of the first half. Portsmouth’s challenge was made more difficult by the dismissal of their captain, Marlon Pack, after 67 minutes, while Sunderland had plenty of chances in the second half. After continuing their unbeaten home record this season, the Black Cats will accept the three points and maintain their challenge at the top of the championship table, even though it could and should have been more.

Player evaluations for Sunderland from their 1-0 victory over Portsmouth

Although they will be unhappy not to have maintained their early lead, the Black Cats never appeared to be in danger of losing this match, and nearly every member of the Sunderland team leaves the game with a great performance.

Anthony Patterson: 7

Although the Sunderland goalie had to deal with relatively few shots on goal, he did manage a few risky crosses and handled a backpass nicely in the beginning.

Trai Hume: 7

Although Hume did not do anything particularly noteworthy, he was able to control the majority of Portsmouth’s attacking activity in the first forty-five minutes. In the second half, it was necessary to be more aggressive and take more chances.

Chris Mepham: 6

The Sunderland defense was arguably the busiest in the first half, but they never appeared to be in any genuine danger. After Portsmouth’s dismissal, his job became much easier as the away team found it difficult to mount a serious offensive.

Luke O’Nien: 7

The Sunderland veteran had a rather quiet game, but halfway through the second half he went on the attack, setting up a fantastic opportunity with a clever ball across the box. Fluffed a clearance shortly after dealing with a loose ball in the box.

Aji Alese: 6

There was not much to do in the first half, as most of the action took place on the other side. At halftime, Dennis Cirkin took his position.

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