7 Things Learned From Sunderland's 1-0 Loss To Sacramento Republic

7. Adam Matthews Can Definitely Get Forward

In his first interview since signing for Sunderland, the former Celtic man claimed he enjoys getting forward and creating chances - a trait he certainly proved against Sacramento. Sunderland's clearest chance came from a pinpoint Matthews cross from the right flank, a ball Steven Fletcher headed onto the bar. It was a chance many would expect a capable striker to put away, especially a player of Fletcher's aerial ability, and gave legitimacy to the Welshman's claim of attacking intent. Advocaat is known for his desire to get the full backs forward in support of the front three, but only Patrick van Aanholt did so with any regularity. Hopefully Matthews will be able to bring balance in this regard, while remaining a consistently solid presence at the back.