Sunderland’s pre-season adventure finally ended last night, with a 2-0 away defeat at the hands of Algeciras, a Spanish Segunda Division B side(Spanish 2nd Div). But to make matters worse for Peter Reid’s boys, after only 11 minutes on the field, Ballymun born Thomas Butler was sent off for clashing with his opponent after the tackle he made.
Sunderland played in a hostile environment in which saw ref. Barry Lopez handing out “three” Red (two to Sunderland) and four yellow cards on the night. The Algeciras stormed onto the field and threatened to attack Northern Ireland fullback George McCartney, when he produced a tackle that didn’t satisfy the home fans. McCartney was also sent off.
Kevin Philips failed a late fitness after receiving stitches to a head wound on Thursday, when the former England striker clashed with a Seville player. So it was up to Big Niall with strike partner Kevin Kyle up front. Quinn came close on ten minutes with a re-bounded shot just over the bar. Phil Babb and J. McAteer remained on the bench, while Kilbane played the full 90 (mins), Quinn 75, and Butler only 11 after a sending off.
Algeciras incidentally scored both of their goals on the 89th & 90th minute, in a contest with saw Black Cats Asst. Mgr, Adrian Heath threatening to remove his players at the second half because of the home-sides dirty tactics. For a full match report go to Sunderlands Official Website, to read "Nick Alexanders" report direct from Spain
Final Score - Algeciras 2 - 0 Sunderland
Team Sunderland - Macho, Haas, Craddock, Bjorklund, McCartney, Kilbane , Williams, Thirlwell, Arca, Quinn (Gray 76), Kyle ( Butler 60).
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