Although Mike Dodds acknowledged that Sunderland’s performance against QPR was the worst since he became interim head coach, he also commended Anthony Patterson for helping to halt the team’s losing streak.
When Sinclair Armstrong set up Chris Willock for a huge late chance at the Stadium of Light, QPR appeared to be about to salvage three points from a disappointing match, but Patterson performed brilliantly to run across goal and make a reflex stop. In order to maintain parity in the first half, Patterson also made a huge save to keep Lucas Andersen at bay.
Although Sunderland’s worrying run of results was halted by the clean sheet, Dodds said he could not ignore the performance’s disappointment. Throughout the game, Sunderland was unable to muster a single shot on goal. Dodds acknowledged that his injured team was doing their hardest, but he also felt that he, the players, and himself needed to provide more.
“The performance I was really disappointed with, both first and second half,” Dodds stated.
We tried hard, but we didn’t really play well; this wasn’t limited to the top half of the pitch. In particular, I felt that our build was slow and cumbersome. I have to continue working with them because they are a group in need of assistance, and I bear a big portion of that obligation.
“I think that was a really naive performance, but I think in the last four games I’ve probably tried to look at pockets of the game that I really liked – there wasn’t a lot that I liked about that game. However, I think you will naturally get some help when you get some bodies back.” We’re heading It is obvious that having some members return for the Easter weekend will greatly benefit the group. Since they are giving it their all, I can’t fault their effort, but we are currently limited on resources.
Dodds stated that Patterson’s efforts demonstrated his promise and validated the club’s belief in the 23-year-old.
“I don’t take any satisfaction when the goalkeeper keeps you in the game because it tells you that there’s a chain of events leading up to that point that you can either stop or make better decisions,” Dodds stated.
On the other hand, Patta deserves a lot of credit for his incredible save at the end. He hasn’t had much of an impact on the game, but when a goalie makes huge saves in that kind of situation, I believe that’s a hallmark of a top goalie. Although he has faced some criticism this season, that save strengthens our argument that he is among the finest goalkeepers in the division.
Dodds also gave Dan Ballard credit for playing even though he missed this week’s practice due to a hamstring issue.
“He’s a fantastic young man who loves representing the club and could lead Northern Ireland as captain. He is among the division’s top center halves, and he has demonstrated his character by playing for us today.”