Phil Parkinson has hailed each and every one of Sunderland’s players after Tuesday’s seismic win, paying particular homage to Duncan Watmore and Will Grigg.
The Black Cats romped through the gears at the Stadium of Light last night, putting five past Tranmere Rovers to record their biggest home win in 21 years.
Watmore starred as he broke the deadlock before turning provider for Chris Maguire’s free-kick and then Lynden Gooch’s close-range finish.
Grigg too got himself about, assisting Watmore’s opener and adding a fourth late on after excellent work from Marc McNulty.
Luke O’Nien capped the display with a speculative diving header to leave boss Parkinson delighted with his side’s showing on his home debut.
“We have got players with quality, but we have just got to make sure we make it difficult for the opposition,” he said.
“We have got to make sure we get the opposition back four running back to their own goal instead of playing in front of teams.
“I thought we got that balance right against Tranmere and there were some big performances.
“I was really pleased for Duncan because he has had a tough time of it, but he was excellent and showed how dangerous he can be.
“His performance and contribution will do him the world of good.
“Will (Grigg) also looked lively when he came on, on Saturday and first of all I thought the supporters gave him a great reception when he came on then too.
“They understand he has been a bit of a frustrated figure, but he is working hard – he did that on Saturday but didn’t get his rewards.
“On Tuesday, he gave us exactly the same again and I’m just so pleased he got that goal at the end.
“There is no better feeling at the end when you are a player walking off and you are getting a standing ovation from the fans.”
