Sunderland went down 1-0 to Dutch side Heerenveen in their latest pre-season friendly at the Stadium of Light yesterday.
It was the Black Cats final outing before the big EFL kick-off next week, and the third time in succession they have failed to find the back of the net this summer. Indeed, Sunderland’s only goals during the summer preparations came in a 2-0 victory over semi-professional South Shields in their opening encounter.
Jack Ross recently promised Sunderland fans a more expansive style for 2019/20. A lack of cutting edge hindered their League One promotion campaign last time out, but the evidence so far appears to show the Black Cats are still struggling in the final third.
Most Sunderland fans seemed to be relatively relaxed about their team’s pre-season performances, offering comments of perspective rather than vitriol on social media. However, it does appear the pressure is mounting on Jack Ross amongst sections of the support before a competitive ball is kicked in anger.
Nothing short of automatic promotion will be acceptable to the faithful this season, and the worrying lack of firepower needs to be addressed in many fans opinion with some already questioning whether Ross is the right man to deliver a return to Championship football.
Here is a selection of responses to the latest result on Twitter.
Ross to be sacked by October
— Jonathan Clark (@JonathanClark99) July 27, 2019
Anyone that thinks pre season results mean anything doesn’t understand football
— Ian Hogg (@Hogg1903) July 27, 2019
One of the poorest pre seasons goals wise for quite some time. Hopefully no reflection on how season goes
— Si-Williamson (@si_williamson) July 27, 2019
I was keen to see Jack Ross be given another season, but already I feel the pressure is on him again, and with a tough start in the league coming up these friendly results haven’t helped his case. Big week now coming up before Oxford. (2/2)
— Daniel Gallagher (@_dgallagher99) July 27, 2019
This man is not the answer….fact. If we’re not on point by the end of October he needs to go. We must get out of this league this season.
— it’s all about today (@GaryFTM) July 27, 2019
https://twitter.com/martybagsuk/status/1155260048538517505?s=20
https://twitter.com/Safcgolfer75/status/1155207407980699648?s=20
https://twitter.com/JayFoley19/status/1155217716086751234?s=20
https://twitter.com/ThePootisPower/status/1155275241716944896?s=20
https://twitter.com/SAFCLiam1973/status/1155234174258896908?s=20
