Alious### Sunderland Fans Frustrated After Another Late Equaliser
Sunderland supporters were left exasperated once again as their team conceded yet another late equaliser, this time against Millwall in a 1-1 draw at The Den. This marks the second consecutive game—and the fourth time this season—that Sunderland has dropped points from a winning position in the Championship.
Before the international break, Sunderland surrendered a two-goal lead against Coventry City, resulting in a 2-2 draw at the Stadium of Light. On Saturday, a similar story unfolded. Despite taking an early lead, Sunderland allowed Millwall to equalise in injury time, leaving fans increasingly frustrated with manager Régis Le Bris and his perceived defensive approach after taking the lead.
#### **Disappointment at The Den**
Given the team’s numerous injuries and suspensions, many Sunderland fans might have considered a draw a reasonable result before the match. However, the manner of the draw—conceding late after leading for most of the game—has proven hard to accept. Fans argue that Sunderland’s tendency to sit back after scoring invites pressure, which opponents frequently capitalize on.
#### **Le Bris’ Reaction: Millwall Deserved a Goal**
Speaking to *Total Sport* after the game, Le Bris acknowledged the disappointment but claimed that Millwall’s equaliser was not entirely unexpected.
“The scenario is difficult to digest,” said Le Bris. “But overall, in the second half, they deserved to score at least one goal, so it’s not a big surprise. Over the game as a whole, I think we deserved that point. Probably, with the scenario, we could’ve won. But football is like that.”
While his comments may hold some truth, they have done little to placate fans, who feel the team’s habit of retreating into a defensive shell after scoring is costing them valuable points in the promotion race.
#### **A Bright Spot: Aaron Connolly’s First Goal**
One positive takeaway from the match was Aaron Connolly’s performance. The 24-year-old striker scored his first goal for Sunderland, providing a much-needed boost to his confidence after six goalless appearances for the club.
Le Bris was quick to praise Connolly, stating, “Aaron deserves this because he worked a lot. He worked for the team today again, and it was a fantastic goal.”
Connolly’s goal highlighted his potential as a proven striker at the Championship level and offered a glimpse of the additional dimension he brings compared to other forwards like Wilson Isidor.
#### **The Bigger Issue: Holding Onto Leads**
Despite Connolly’s promising contribution, Sunderland’s inability to maintain leads remains a glaring concern. Without addressing this recurring issue, the Black Cats’ promotion hopes are at risk. Dropped points from winning positions could ultimately cost Sunderland their chance at securing a return to the Premier League this season.
As the team moves forward, Le Bris will need to find solutions to shore up the defense and instill greater composure in late-game situations. Otherwise, Sunderland’s struggles with closing out matches could derail an otherwise promising campaign.
Alious
