MATCH REPORT: Max Power screamer puts League One Sunderland in the next round of the League Cup

A Max Power screamer set Sunderland on their way to taking a second Premier League scalp of the season as Jack Ross’s side progressed through to the fourth round of the League Cup at the expense of Sheffield United.

It was a completely different side to the team that showed up at Bolton Wanderers last weekend, as Sunderland showed an eagerness to press and continuously troubled Sheffield United’s back line, with deputy goalkeeper Lee Burge and debutant Joel Lynch equally as impressive at the back.

Chris Wilder’s side could have been in front within five minutes had it not been for the bravery of Lee Burge however, who dove at the feet of Callum Robinson followed a poor mistake by Tom Flanagan. Sunderland recovered quickly though and took the lead on nine minutes through a twenty yard Max Power screamer, and could have added to it quite easily, such was their first half dominance.

The second half began in a very similar fashion, with Luke O’Nien smashing a shot against the bar after great work from substitute Denver Hume. Although the Premier League side saw more of the ball in the second half, Charlie Wyke proved a great outlet for a Sunderland side when United pressured.

Despite Wilder’s side rallying late on, they never really threatened a resolute Sunderland defence, who held firm to deservedly progress into the next round.