Sunderland star reveals what Michael Beale said at half-time that inspired win v Plymouth

Pierre Ekwah has elucidated on the halftime instructions provided by Michael Beale during Sunderland’s victory over Plymouth Argyle yesterday.

Sunderland delivered a lackluster performance in the first half, conceding a goal due to poor positioning by Anthony Patterson, which put them behind. However, they showed significant improvement in the second half, dominating possession and scoring three impressive goals within a 15-minute span to secure a crucial victory.

Ekwah opened the scoring with a cleverly executed free-kick, assisted by Patrick Roberts, placing the ball perfectly into the net. Jack Clarke then showcased one of his best performances of the season, cutting inside from the byline and unleashing a trademark shot from outside the box.

Despite being dropped for only the third time this season, Jobe Bellingham made an impact shortly after being brought on, scoring a goal with a curling shot from almost halfway to confirm the win comfortably on home turf.

While the victory was primarily attributed to the team’s quality, Ekwah acknowledged that Beale’s halftime instructions played a significant role in their success.

 

 

Speaking to the Sunderland Echo after the game, Ekwah said: “The gaffer offered us some excellent advise at half-time, which we absolutely absorbed and put into action, so it was nice.

“It’s difficult to beat an away side that is defensively organised. Perhaps you won’t do it in the first half, but you can in the second.
“We came out with a fresh attitude, or at least sharper thinking in the second half. That certainly helped us out, and we ended up winning the second half. We lost the first half, but won the second half.

“When you are in the top eight or top ten of the Championship, teams away from home will come and sit, and you must find a way, as we did. We’re becoming better at it over the season, which is fantastic. We just shown in the second half how you should begin the first half.”

Is Michael Beale turning things around?

Michael Beale deserves significant recognition for the victory against Plymouth, particularly considering Sunderland’s historical struggles to reverse performances at halftime, as evidenced by yesterday’s turnaround.

Although it could have been implemented earlier, the decision to drop Jobe proved to be astute, potentially contributing to his goal as he benefited from some rest after being sidelined for a game.

The team showed significant improvement defensively and displayed greater attacking prowess in the second half.

While complete trust in Beale may still need time to develop, this result represents a positive step forward, suggesting that the team may not be in as dire a situation as initially feared.