AliousSunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson has come under fire following his costly mistake in the 1-0 defeat to Hull City, but an EFL expert has stepped in to defend him, arguing that the blame should be shared.
The Black Cats struggled to create meaningful chances throughout the match, with Wilson Isidor and substitute Eliezer Mayenda failing to convert rare opportunities in front of goal. Meanwhile, at the other end of the pitch, disaster struck when former Sunderland forward Joe Gelhardt sent in a curling corner that led to Patterson conceding an unfortunate own goal. The moment raised “serious questions” from manager Regis Le Bris, and many Sunderland fans have since called for the goalkeeper to be dropped.
However, football analyst Justin Peach, speaking on the *Second Tier Podcast*, pushed back against the criticism, suggesting that winger Patrick Roberts also played a role in the goal. Peach argued that Roberts failed to properly contest the header at the near post, leaving Patterson in a difficult position. He explained that while Patterson could have done better, Roberts’ lack of commitment put the goalkeeper in a situation where he had to react quickly. Ultimately, Peach described the heavy criticism of Patterson as “harsh” and believed the mistake wasn’t as egregious as many have claimed.
Moving forward, Patterson must use Sunderland’s upcoming fixtures as an opportunity to rebuild his confidence. In several big games this season, including the defeat to Leeds United, he has struggled to assert himself in aerial situations—a weakness that Hull City manager Ruben Selles appeared to exploit. If Patterson continues to show hesitation in commanding his box, opposition teams will likely target him. Fortunately, Sunderland has a more manageable run of games ahead, potentially allowing the young goalkeeper to steady himself and regain form at a crucial point in the season.
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