Guardiola rues wasteful finishing as Man City are held to goalless draw at Sunderland
Pep Guardiola expressed his frustration after Manchester City failed to turn dominance into goals, settling for a 0–0 draw against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on New Year’s Day.
City travelled north hoping to end Sunderland’s unbeaten home run in the Premier League this season, but despite creating numerous chances, they were left misfiring in front of goal. The visitors struck the woodwork and also had a goal ruled out for offside, summing up a frustrating evening.
The draw leaves City second in the table at the halfway stage of the campaign, four points behind leaders Arsenal.
“Tough place to come,” Guardiola told the BBC. “The chances we missed in the six yard box were not difficult ones, but we couldn’t convert. In the first half we didn’t do exactly what we spoke about, but overall it was a really good game.”
City pushed hard to break Sunderland down, mixing crosses from wide areas with patient build-up play through the middle. However, the home side defended with real intensity and discipline, particularly during a second half in which City spent long spells camped in Sunderland’s half.
“In the second half it was better,” Guardiola added. “We broke the lines more and showed more composure. The players gave everything. Of course they are disappointed now, but we have to lift our heads because in three days we face a very difficult game against Chelsea.”
Sunderland were also buoyed by a raucous home crowd, with defender Trai Hume praising the supporters for their role in another strong display at the Stadium of Light.
“Every time we play at home, the fans are incredible,” Hume said. “They are our 12th man and you can see it in our performances and our home record this season. They push us on, and we want to keep making it a difficult place for teams to come.”
