Despite avoiding defeat, a draw against Gillingham in the FA Cup will result in yet another fixture added to Sunderland’s busy upcoming schedule. A goal from Aiden McGeady in the 15th minute gave the home team the lead, however, Olly Lee equalized for Gillingham in the 46th. There were no more goals for the remaining minutes.
After the match, Sunderland’s Phil Parkinson spoke about the game. Despite the disappointing result, the manager seemed hopeful.
“I think it’s being stronger as a group and you don’t get it all your own way,” said Parkinson (safc.com).
But to some fans, these comments seemed like a dismissal of responsibility. It appeared to them as if Parkinson was just willing to move on from the defeat and ‘carry on’ to the next game. They want a plan of action.
Saying the same as everyone else, I’d rather hear what you plan on doing to change it.
— Alan Reay (@Alan_Reay) November 10, 2019
Phil Parkinson really doesn’t inspire confidence like.
Bring back Di Canio at least it will be entertaining.
— Gavin (@GavinHawkton) November 10, 2019
I saw no evidence of a lack of mental strength whatsoever. I saw a lack of flair, movement, pace, technical ability and athleticism. If we are to improve l would suggest looking at the right areas.
— Ian Smith (@iansmith2265) November 10, 2019
Others called out the manager for his bland comments. They suggest that his interview was excessively scripted with the manager unwilling to point the finger at any one problem in particular.
Is a script in the welcome pack? We’ve seen n heard this too many times
— les emmerson (@lesthemackem) November 10, 2019
Yeah Stuart Donald has trained him well hasn’t he lol
— GazzaDJ (@gazza_dj) November 11, 2019
One fan, however, suggests that after the last couple of games, Parkinson will have plenty to think about. He demands that changes are implemented sooner rather than later. It can only get better from here, right?
Well I am taking a positive view. Parkinson must have learned loads in the last two games.
Act on it Phil— dave redman (@straydog73) November 10, 2019
What do we think?
Parkinson has a lot of work to do at Sunderland. Nobody can dispute that. However, fans want a little more honest from the manager. To them, he is just regurgitating that same old script from managers of the past. We’re sure they won’t mind if he can find a winning formula though. But that’s easier said than done, clearly.