Performance delights Steve Bruce

Oct 5 2009 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

STEVE Bruce cut a disconsolate figure after he was denied a first victory over Manchester United as a manager – but took solace from the performance of his side at Old Trafford.

The Black Cats boss agreed that it was a positive sign of the progress made during his short spell as manager and hailed his side for stepping up to the challenge of going toe-to-toe with the champions.

“It’s so disappointing but we played well. We all want to improve – it doesn’t happen overnight but I think the signs are better,” he said. “I’m delighted with the performances of some of the players. We have improved and we need to keep improving. We all know what happened against Wolves last week but I was delighted with our performance. I believed the spine needed strengthening – you can see what we have tried to do.

“We have tried to put a bit of presence there and I thought all played well.”