AliousLe Bris Hails Heroic Sunderland Star After Last-Gasp Wembley Sealer
Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris was full of praise for his squad after their heart-stopping victory over Coventry City secured a place in the Championship play-off final at Wembley.
A thrilling finale saw Dan Ballard become the hero, scoring a dramatic extra-time goal in stoppage time to swing the tie in Sunderland’s favour after Ephron Mason-Clark had earlier levelled things for Coventry in regulation time.
“It was absolutely fantastic,” Le Bris said after the match.
“To equalise so late and then clinch a Wembley final—it’s why we play the game. These are the emotions we chase.”
With a narrow 1-0 lead from the first leg, Sunderland approached the game with a mix of caution and determination.
Le Bris admitted his young squad felt the nerves, but praised their togetherness and ability to adapt in critical moments.
“We had to strike a balance—holding onto our lead and staying calm under pressure.
It’s a challenge for a youthful team, but they showed strong energy and cohesion.
In the final stages, our substitutions really shifted the momentum,” he explained.
Ballard’s contributions went far beyond the decisive goal. Le Bris lauded the centre-back for a commanding defensive display against a physically imposing Coventry attack.
“Dan was immense,” said Le Bris.
“His presence, aerial dominance, and composure in duels gave the whole team belief.
And then to come up and score the winner—what a bonus. Set-pieces can decide matches, and Dan delivered when it mattered most.”
Sunderland now turn their focus to the Wembley showdown with Sheffield United, one win away from a Premier League return.
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