AliousSunderland manager Regis le Bris expressed disappointment with his team’s showing despite securing a goalless draw against Preston.
The result marked their second consecutive 0-0 draw and extended their unbeaten streak to seven games, putting them two points ahead at the championship summit.
Le Bris made some notable selection decisions, leaving both Patrick Roberts and Romaine Mundle on the bench initially, though both were introduced as second-half substitutes.
He defended these choices as part of managing his squad through a demanding fixture schedule, explaining that player rotation was essential to maintain freshness and provide opportunities across the squad.
The manager acknowledged that Roberts’ introduction in the final thirty minutes helped shift the game’s momentum. He also discussed Wilson Isidor, who was given a start in a wide position.
While admitting Isidor’s performance had room for improvement, Le Bris viewed it as a valuable learning experience for the young forward’s development.
On Preston’s side, manager Paul Heckingbottom voiced frustration about both his team’s finishing and the officiating.
He was particularly aggrieved about a first-half incident where Chris Mepham received only a yellow card for a cynical foul on Sam Greenwood near the box.
Heckingbottom pointed to this as one of several recent controversial decisions that had gone against his team, though he admitted his side could have been more clinical with their chances.
He concluded by expressing pride in his team’s distinct playing style, which he felt was forcing opponents to adapt their approach.
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