Sunderland u21s 1-0 Sporting CP u21s: Mundle’s magic sends Black Cats to the top of the group

Sunderland u21s went top of their Premier League International Cup group after a victory over Sporting CP.

Romaine Mundle’s finish was the only goal of the game with 32 minutes on the clock, with plenty of chances thrown away, particularly from Sunderland.

Sunderland went into this Premier League International Cup match sitting second in Group D with four points from their opening two games, beating Athletic Club 7-1 at the Stadium of Light with help from first team players: Luke O’Nien, Dennis Cirkin and Dan Neil. With Leeds not in action, Sunderland had a chance to overtake the Yorkshire side and claim top spot. The visitors from Portugal were seventh in the group, losing their only game previously to Leeds.

Mundle was a constant threat, testing the keeper twice inside the opening 10 minutes. He was eventually rewarded for his hard work as he went on an excellent run beating three defenders before his shot proved to be too powerful for Guilherme Pires in the Sporting net. 

Peixeto had a shot blocked inside the area as Sporting pushed for an equaliser. However, on the other side of the pitch, Timur Tutierov had a good chance to double the lead but could only fire wide from Mundle’s shot.

Before half time, Dennis Cirkin found some space inside the box and his cross made its way to Jake Waters who could only head over the bar.

Cirkin had a good opportunity to add to the score line in the second half, but his effort flashed wide of the post.

In the last 15 minutes, Sandro Ferreira missed a golden opportunity to equalise as his one on one effort went wide.

The Black Cats secured all three points as they continue their unbeaten run in the competition.

First team players Leo Hjelde and Mundle played 45 minutes as they return to match fitness, with Cirkin playing the full 90.

Sunderland now prepare for an away trip to Halifax on Tuesday night for their National League cup fixture.