Journalist Scott Wilson has lauded Sunderland ace Alex Pritchard for his emphatic performance in the Black Cats’ sensational victory over Wycombe Wanderers.
The Lowdown: League One Play-Off Final
Sunderland took to Wembley to face off against Wycombe in the League One play-off final as Alex Neil’s men sought promotion to the Championship, having been relegated to the English third tier following a disappointing 2017/18 campaign.
The Black Cats began with a flying start, rewarded by Elliot Embleton’s strike in the 12th minute giving them the lead.
Chances further came for Patrick Roberts, Pritchard and Ross Stewart, but the North East outfit were unable convert in front of goal. Thus, Sunderland went in to half-time with just one foot in the Championship.
After returning to the field, it took the Black Cats until the 79th minute to double their lead. Pritchard wriggled across the pitch before rolling the ball into Stewart, who lashed low it into the far corner – securing Sunderland’s place in the Championship.
The Latest: Wilson’s claim
Journalist Scott Wilson hailed Pritchard for his dominant display in the midfield.
Taking to Twitter, he claimed at the interval:
“HT: #SAFC 1 Wycombe 0 - job half done. A really good first half from Sunderland, who have been bright and incisive, with Pritchard especially impressive. Wycombe starting to come into it, but Sunderland have defended their 18-yard box effectively so far.”
The Verdict: Great performance
Whilst a whole host of Sunderland players put in terrific performances against Wycombe, Pritchard really did stand out in the midfield.
Named Man of the Match by Sky Sports, the 29-year-old deserves all his plaudits, as he created four chances and won six duels, also completing five accurate crosses.
Pritchard's award as the MOTM was certainly justified by his magnificent display, and the Black Cats' reward of a spot in the second tier never really looked in doubt.
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