Sunderland players celebrate
Regis Le Bris praised Sunderland’s young side and the impact of his substitutes after they came from behind to beat Torreense 2-1 in the Europa League.
Sunderland fell behind to a superb long-range strike but responded after the break through Jules Ahoka and Noah Sadiki, with Le Bris believing the greater experience introduced from the bench helped change the game.
“We started the game with a really young squad,” Le Bris said.
“It’s a good team, they know how to manage this kind of game, they’re well organised, hard to beat with this deep block and trying to seize every small opportunity.
“To be fair, this goal is fantastic, top corner from 25 metres, so well done.
“A bit disappointing for us, frustrating, because I think we’re in the game without being fantastic.”
Le Bris felt Sunderland improved significantly after the interval and pointed to the influence of his more experienced substitutes.
“The second half is a bit different,” he said.
“The finishers have more experience, built across many years, and they helped us to step up.
“I think the last goal at the very end is our belief and our connection with our fans.”