Sunderland show some grit

Apr 13 2009 By Stuart Rayner, The Journal

HAVING finally shaken off the "fear factor" which has dogged them recently, Phil Bardsley demanded Sunderland banish it for the rest of the season.

The Wearsiders have looked woefully short on confidence recently and, although their more positive approach at home to Manchester United yielded a 2-1 defeat, the manner of it lifted spirits.

"We can gain confidence from this performance despite the result," said Bardsley.

"Against the champions of England we showed a bit of grit, determination and desire. If we do that against (Saturday’s opponents) Hull there’s no reason why we can’t win. There was no fear factor and it has to be like that for the rest of the season.

"You have to go out and enjoy yourselves. First and foremost work hard for each other, everything clicks into place after that. The grit, determination and desire we showed was first-class. I’m sure we can take that into our next few games and we will be all right."

Kenwyne Jones cancelled out Paul Scholes’ opener, and Sunderland were looking the stronger side until substitute Federico Macheda’s 76th-minute winner.

"Just before they scored we thought we would go on and win," said former Red Devils right-back Bardsley.

"It was good for us to give them a good go, roll our sleeves up and show a bit of desire.

"We were feeling comfortable at 1-1 but you’ve always got to be wary against a side like Man United with world-class players. The winner was a soft goal to give away but one nobody could be blamed for it. It’s a bitter pill to swallow."

Bardsley was Sunderland’s captain for the day, something he only discovered when he walked into the dressing room before the match. "I didn’t find out until I discovered the captain’s armband on my seat," he revealed.

"It was a nice little surprise. It’s something you dream of when you are a kid. I don’t know whether it was just because it was Man United or whether I’m now third in line.

"The dream double for me is for Sunderland to stay up and Man United to win the title. I’m a Salford boy and supported Man United as kid.

"As far as Sunderland goes, if we keep playing like that we will be fine."