Despite being held to a draw by Wolves, Lebrides claims Sunderland's level has returned.

Sunderland took the lead in the 35th round of the 2025/26 Premier League season thanks to a goal from Nordi Moukiele, but then suffered a red card for Daniel Ballard and conceded a goal, ultimately being held to a 1-1 draw by Wolves. Although they couldn't secure all three points, Lebrides stated that the team's performance and level had returned, even creating chances despite playing with ten men.

Xhaka's corner kick in the 17th minute was headed in by Nordi Mukiele, giving Sunderland a 1-0 lead. In the 21st minute, Daniel Ballard was shown a red card and sent off for pulling Arokdare's hair while vying for possession.

In the 54th minute of the second half, Hugo Bueno took a corner kick, and Santiago Bueno headed the ball into the net, helping Wolves equalize 1-1. Ultimately, Sunderland were held to a 1-1 draw by Wolves at Molineux Stadium.

Wolves manager Lebrides said, "Our level of play has returned. We dominated the early stages and deserved to take the lead. However, the red card changed the course of the game and allowed the opponent to gradually build momentum with a one-man advantage."

“We adjusted our formation in the second half and still created some chances. I’m satisfied with the team’s overall coordination. After conceding nine goals in the previous two games, it was hard to predict how we would respond in this match.”

When discussing the red card decision, Lebrides said, "We understand the rule, but it's hard to accept because there was no malice involved. A rule is a rule, and it's possible for that to happen when facing a striker with long hair."

Furthermore, after achieving 2 wins, 1 draw and 1 loss in the last 5 rounds, Sunderland is currently ranked 12th in the standings with 47 points, and will host Manchester United in the next league match.

Image source: Internet