Regis Le Bris knew from the start at the Stadium of Light that the methods he sought to deploy at Championship contenders Sunderland would always be a question of risk against return. Tactics that were perhaps best exemplified by the 2-1 victory over Luton Town in late October. While Romain Mundle’s stunning goal propelled Sunderland past Rob Edwards’ side, the hosts created the most obvious opportunities on the night. The fact that Anthony Patterson was forced to make only three stops in the 90 minutes at Kenilworth Road demonstrated how well Sunderland’s man-to-man, out-of-possession approach worked. Not only defensively, but also offensively.
Regis Le Bris’s challenge to his players to man-mark opposing attackers rather than participate in a more cohesive set-up often gives Sunderland’s forwards the flexibility and space at the other end to make a difference, liberated from defensive responsibilities. Speaking at his news conference ahead of Norwich City’s trip to the Stadium of Light on Saturday, Le Bris reveals that this was an idea he had since taking over at Wearside in the summer. He refused to give up on the concept, even as Sunderland’s promotion chances diminished during a six-game losing streak.
Regis Le Bris feels the ‘risky’ Sunderland plan will reap rewards. “It was clear in my mind [what I wanted to do with the Sunderland squad], and I didn’t change, I think,” Le Bris told the press. “We defined five or six ideas out of possession and stated, ‘This is how we want to play, even if we struggle.'” For example, the man-for-man [method] is extremely hazardous, but it is the way we intend to defend at home and away.” Le Bris understands that this may leave Sunderland susceptible at the back. However, he believes Chris Mepham and Dan Ballard will win their respective duels at critical periods. According to board member Dave Jones, Bournemouth loanee Mepham ‘has been excellent’.
When Mepham and co. are defeated, Le Bris can rely on Patterson’s outstanding shot-stopping abilities in goal. “We will most likely concede significant changes and even goals,” says the former FC Lorient coach. “However, if we can conquer that phase, it will be a significant strength for our squad. We can learn from both positive and unpleasant situations. Le Bris’very delighted’ as Sunderland recover from Watford defeat Le Bris highlights the late 2-1 setback at Watford, which occurred only weeks into his employment. Sunderland defended admirably for the opening 84 minutes, but Dan Neil gifted The Hornets a winner by bringing down Kwadwo Baah in the penalty area.
“Remember the penalty we conceded at the end, it was a shame because we mastered that phase for a long time,” Le Bris points out. “At that point, it was difficult. [But] we learned from that experience, and we are now improving.” Surprisingly, Sunderland has only lost once in 14 games since the Vicarage Road defeat. “For me, it was clear that the potential of the team was [big],” Le Bris finishes. “But it was also necessary to define clear ideals, to maintain consistency as a staff and coach, and to believe that this is the way we want to play and that we would grow with experience. “So I’m not surprised, and I’m pleased with how [my team is] playing right now. Very happy.
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