Sunderland vs. Everton: Winners and Losers from Premier League Game
Everton and Sunderland shared the points in a 1-1 draw at the Stadium of Light.
It was a game decided by set pieces. Sebastian Larsson gave the home side the lead on 67 minutes, curling home a free-kick through an unconvincing Everton wall.
The visitors then responded nine minutes later from the penalty spot, as Leighton Baines capitalised on Connor Wickham's foul on Seamus Coleman.
Here's a look at some winners and losers from this contest.
Loser: Gareth Barry
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Gareth Barry is an unfortunate loser in this game.
The central midfielder was fouled by Jordi Gomez and needed lengthy treatment before eventually being replaced by Darron Gibson on 13 minutes.
Barry was clearly in some discomfort and had to be stretchered off with a leg brace. He eventually left for hospital with a suspected broken leg, according to BBC Sport.
The midfielder's influence was clearly missed for the rest of the game, and his injury will come as a big blow to Roberto Martinez if he's out for any substantial period.
Barry has been Everton's leading passer in seven of Everton's previous 10 Premier League games, and his absence caused a noticeable drop in tempo.
Winner: James McCarthy
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James McCarthy was the best player on the pitch by a substantial margin.
The Republic of Ireland international compensated for the loss of his midfield partner with a typical all-action, bustling showing in the heart of midfield.
He was uncompromising in the tackle and unrelenting in his desire to regain possession at every turn.
His late goal-line clearance saved his side a point, and with Barry potentially sidelined, McCarthy will be almost indispensable to Martinez.
Loser: Connor Wickham
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Connor Wickham's hesitation and rash challenge on Seamus Coleman cost his side a win, but he struggled throughout this game.
It was his inability to hold up the ball and recycle possession that contributed to lengthy spells of Everton possession, particularly during the first half.
Playing in a left-sided role, the striker's passing was simply abysmal, with just 57 per cent of his passes finding a Sunderland player.
He also lost possession more than any team-mate (four), failed to hit the target with any of his three shots and was unable to create a single chance.
WInner: Costel Pantilimon
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Sunderland's major winner was Costel Pantilimon, who once again looked the part between the sticks.
The Romania international was tidy with his handling and saved five of Everton's six shots on target.
He might have done better with Baines' penalty, but his calm, assured approach has instilled confidence into a previously ailing defence.
The goalkeeper reacted well to smother Romelu Lukaku's one-on-one and seems set for a lengthy spell in the team ahead of Vito Mannone.
Loser: Romelu Lukaku
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Another striker to disappoint in this game was Everton's Romelu Lukaku.
After producing arguably his best display of the season in Thursday's 3-0 win over Lille, the Belgium international struggled to pose a threat.
His first touch was simply nonexistent at times, as he lost possession six times through poor control—the worst return on the pitch.
He also should have done better with a one-on-one and was regularly the cause of attacking breakdowns.
Statistics via WhoScored.com.
