Sunderland came from behind to earn an important point against Aston Villa having played 56 minutes with ten men after Reinildo’s sending off.
The Black Cats were the better of the two sides prior to that moment of madness, but that allowed Unai Emery’s side into the game. Matty Cash opened the scoring with a long range effort in the 67th minute, with Robin Roefs unable to keep the ball out of the back of the net.
However, Regis Le Bris’ side did not crumble and fought back into the game with Wilson Isidor scoring the all important equaliser in the 75th minute after some great play from Granit Xhaka.
Here’s how Matty Hewitt rated the Sunderland players from the draw against Aston Villa:
Robin Roefs – 6
Brilliant double save to keep Villa at bay midway through the first half. Didn’t have too much to do, though maybe could have done better with the Villa goal, but it comes through a crowd of bodies and moves in the air.
Trai Hume – 7
Kept Emi Buendia quiet in the early stages of the game and bombed forward to offer an outlet down the right. Dependable as ever.
Nordi Mukiele – 9
A real Rolls Royce of a performance from the French defender. Another great defensive display and coped well with Ollie Watkins pace. Pulled off a great last-ditch tackle before Sunderland’s equaliser. His long throws are a great tool to have.
Omar Alderete – 7
Steady away in the heart of defence and a threat from set pieces. Had a great opportunity to send Talbi away on a counter before half-time, but his pass was poor. Aside from the goal, had the best chance of the second half with a header that crashed off the crossbar.
Reinildo – 4
Really silly red card for kicking out at Cash after winning the initial foul. Had started the game well, but you just can’t kick out like that.
Granit Xhaka – 7
Looked to make things happen prior to the sending off. Showed his experience in the heart of midfield to shore things up. Brilliant composure and vision for the assist.
Noah Sadiki – 7
Worked really well alongside Xhaka and is forming a strong partnership with the Swiss international. Covered almost every blade of grass today and didn’t give Villa’s midfield a moment’s rest.