The Black Cats claimed their biggest win of the season so far as they came from behind to claim all three points at Stamford Bridge, with their winner coming in the third minute of stoppage time.
It was a goal created and finished by the Black Cats’ substitutes, with Brian Brobbey holding the ball up in Chelsea’s penalty area before rolling in Chemsdine Talbi, who stroked a superb curled finish into the bottom corner.
It is not the first time Sunderland’s replacements have made a major impact this season, with Wilson Isidor also having scored as a substitute in the wins over West Ham and Brentford, with Le Bris claiming that the sight of replacements proving so effective is proof of the spirit that is powering his side on this season.
“We speak often about togetherness,” said the Black Cats boss. “We need the starters, and we also need the finishers to be completely connected with the squad.
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“That was the case in this game. It was tough to hold the ball during the second half, but we know that Brian has this ability to keep the ball under pressure.
“Riggy [Chris Rigg] and Chems [Talbi] also came off the bench and gave this extra energy with the ability to exploit spaces in behind. It was a good way to finish the game.”
Sunderland’s win lifted them up to second position in the table, and while they might not finish the weekend there, such a notable success can only build even more confidence within the squad.
The Black Cats might have one of the youngest squads in the Premier League, but that is resulting in a fearlessness that is serving them well.
“I don’t know what this win will do for the team, we will have to see,” said Le Bris. “We won three points, and we are happy with the way we played.
“It’s important to grab this kind of opportunity when it is possible because, sometimes, the opponent is so talented, they can change the game. But here, it was possible and we played well to get these three points.”