3 things we clearly learnt about Sunderland after their 2-1 loss v Sheffield United | OneFootball

Sunderland’s unbeaten start to life in the Championship came to an end on Tuesday night.

A 2-1 loss away to Sheffield United condemned Alex Neil’s side to zero points at Bramall Lane.

A red card to Dan Neil in the 31st minute played a crucial role on the night, with Anel Ahmedhodzic giving the hosts the lead just two minutes later.

Max Lowe doubled the Blades’ advantage in the 47th minute before Lynden Gooch gave the visitors hope that a spirited comeback was on.

However, the scoreline remained 2-1 for the final half hour which now leaves Neil’s side with five points from their opening four games and 11th in the table.

Here are three things we clearly learned about Sunderland following their 2-1 defeat on Wednesday night…

Set piece defending

Sunderland conceded the first goal of the game from a corner, with Ahmedhodzic leaping above everyone else to drive a header home.

But United could’ve added to their lead throughout the game from set pieces, where Sunderland were caught open far too regularly.

Even considering the man disadvantage, the Black Cats were caught napping on a couple of occasions.

The dismissal of Dan Neil compounded the issues, but work remains to be done on this area, especially considering the late equaliser conceded against QPR last weekend as well.

It was apparent even when it was still 11v11 that there is a big gap between where these clubs will be competing this season.

Sunderland have started the campaign well, but this defeat to United sets a real benchmark for what Neil’s side can achieve with this squad.

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Gooch pulled off a smart finish, but it was the team’s only real chance of the game.

This was a much needed reality check for the team, whose focus should now firmly be set on maintaining and solidifying their place in the Championship, with anything else considered a bonus.

Defensive issues

The second goal also highlighted some defensive concerns in open play, with Ahmedhodzic too easily able to take up such an advanced position in the box.

It was a well worked goal, but it was made too easy by Sunderland, who failed to react to the smart movement of Sander Berge to step over the ball.

The team was second to every ball in that sequence and it led directly to the goal.

The Black Cats have had some glaring defensive problems so far this season, conceding seven from four games already.

It is an admirable setup in that Sunderland are going aggressive with two men up top, but it is leaving the team vulnerable in defence despite having the extra man in the backline.

This is something that will need to be improved in the coming weeks, particularly in the absence of Dan Ballard.