AliousSunderland failed to capitalize on a golden opportunity to boost their promotion hopes, drawing 2-2 with bottom-of-the-table Plymouth Argyle at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
Regis Le Bris’ side rallied from a goal down to take a 2-1 lead, only to concede a scrappy injury-time equalizer, leaving fans frustrated with the dropped points. While Trai Hume shone with a goal and an assist, others struggled, including goalkeeper Anthony Patterson, who was criticized for failing to claim the cross that led to Plymouth’s last-gasp goal.
However, journalist Michael Graham believes Patterson wasn’t the worst performer on the day. Instead, he pointed to centre-back Chris Mepham, describing his performance as an “absolute stinker.”
### Michael Graham calls out Mepham for costly errors
Mepham, who has been a key figure in Sunderland’s defense this season, had an uncharacteristically poor outing against Plymouth. The 27-year-old, on loan from Bournemouth, has been praised throughout the campaign for his consistency and leadership at the back. However, on Saturday, his usually commanding presence was missing.
For Plymouth’s opening goal, Mepham was caught out of position, with the ball ricocheting off him before Patterson’s own goal. Graham highlighted the defender’s struggles on social media, expressing disappointment in his unsteady display.
### Mepham’s form praised despite setback
This off-day comes after pundit Don Goodman recently hailed Mepham’s exceptional form, claiming the 2024/25 campaign is the best he’s seen from the centre-back in his career. “He’s been a rock,” Goodman said, underscoring Mepham’s significant role in Sunderland’s promotion push.
While every player has an off game, Sunderland will be counting on Mepham to bounce back quickly. The draw against Plymouth leaves Sunderland just four points behind Championship leaders Leeds United, with plenty of games left in the season to make up ground.
### Eyes on Middlesbrough clash
Le Bris will need his squad to regroup quickly, with a crucial match against Middlesbrough on February 3rd. Meanwhile, Sunderland fans will also be watching Monday’s clash between Leeds United and Burnley, hoping for a result that keeps the title race wide open.
Despite the setback, Sunderland remain firmly in contention, but performances like Saturday’s highlight the fine margins that could determine the season’s outcome.
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