Regis Le Bris said Sunderland lacked quality in the final third as Brighton secured a hard-fought 2-0 victory, despite Pascal Struijk’s red card.
Goals from Maxim De Cuyper and Premier League debutant Jaouen Hadjam earned Albion all three points, with the visitors defending resolutely after Struijk’s dismissal in the 57th minute.
The Sunderland manager felt his side had opportunities to take control before the break but failed to capitalise.
“A tight game, especially in the first half,” he said.
Regis Le Bris said Sunderland lacked quality in the final third as Brighton secured a hard-fought 2-0 victory, despite Pascal Struijk’s red card. (Photo: OLI SCARFF / AFP via Getty Images)placeholder image
Regis Le Bris said Sunderland lacked quality in the final third as Brighton secured a hard-fought 2-0 victory, despite Pascal Struijk’s red card. (Photo: OLI SCARFF / AFP via Getty Images)
“Two well-organised teams, high press, counter-press, second balls. I think we created a few chances trying to exploit wide areas, balls in behind, but we lacked quality in the final third to seize our opportunities.”
Le Bris admitted Sunderland’s task changed after Brighton were reduced to ten men, with the hosts unable to break down Albion’s defensive block.
“They were in their game plan at that moment and we lacked quality in the final third,” he said.
Le Bris explained that Sunderland introduced players with one-on-one ability to try to exploit their numerical advantage, but acknowledged his team were still learning to handle different situations.
“You can't build in one day a team who can manage many different scenarios, many different situations and we are in this process and we have to stay humble,” he said.
“Brighton struggled at times before so they are in a good run, they've built momentum and we were just on the edge today.
“So keep the personality, keep improving, keep learning, stay positive, trust your process and we'll change the dynamic.”