SUNDERLAND V QPR 1-1 FT

So now we have had 24 hours to calm down and (perhaps) make a more rational assessment of the game.... Which of our players deserves Man of the Match then? Here is my take (and feel free to respond):

Smithies made some key saves, but no penalties this week so not my choice

Baptiste and Bidwell found themselves this week as CBs and adapted accordingly well, but nothing special

The magic midfield of Scowen, Luongo & Freeman all worked tirelessly chasing the ball, tackling and moving forward but, again, nothing special

Of the rest who played, the only ones worth considering are Manning & Sylla. The former has sat on the bench more than the latter, but both took the opportunity offered to impress. Both were better in the first half than the second, although that may be because they were not match-fit or that Sunderland came out better prepared. Despite being less effective in the second half, you have to admire Sylla's work-ethic (much improved), ball-control and positioning; and Manning, obviously under instruction, was dominant down the left wing, causing a lot of problems for Sunderland and his crosses were really threatening (Pavel take note). Close one, but for me the Man of the Match is Ryan Manning.