“Before the game I would have said away to Sunderland is a good result but to lose two points in the last moment of the game in this way to Sunderland is HEART-BREAKING and “TOUGH” to take”- “Heartbreak for Leeds! Daniel Farke’s Shocking Reaction to Illan Meslier’s Devastating Error Leading to Sunderland’s Equalizer
The Irish News
Daniel Farke Says Sunderland’s Equalizer After Illan Meslier’s Error Is ‘Tough to Take’
Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris sympathized with Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier but felt his team deserved the draw.
Leeds boss Daniel Farke was “heartbroken” after Meslier’s last-minute mistake allowed Sunderland to level the score at 2-2 in a thrilling Sky Bet Championship match.
Meslier’s costly error came when Alan Browne’s deflected cross glanced off Junior Firpo’s head, evading the goalkeeper as he attempted to collect it. The ball rolled into the net, earning Sunderland a crucial point, with Farke admitting he had never seen anything like it in his 30-year career.
“I’ve experienced winning and losing points in the dying moments, but I’ve never seen anything quite like this,” Farke said. “To lose points in this way is heartbreaking and incredibly disappointing for our players. They’ve done so much right after a tough period, and to lose two points like this feels like a loss. Before the game, I would have considered a draw away at Sunderland a good result.”
In a lively match at the Stadium of Light, Sunderland initially took the lead with a goal from teenager Chris Rigg before Joel Piroe equalized with a header. Firpo then scored early in the second half, seemingly sealing the victory until Meslier’s late blunder.
“I’m proud of how we reacted and played, especially how solid we were in the second half,” Farke added. “So, while it’s disappointing, I have to commend my players. They were excellent, and right now, they just need support rather than criticism.”
Farke stated that there was no need for Meslier to explain his mistake immediately. “At this moment, he’s the saddest player in the dressing room. We gave him a hug and will leave him alone; he doesn’t need to explain anything today.”
Meanwhile, Le Bris expressed his disappointment for Meslier but reiterated that Sunderland earned the draw. “I feel for him because I like him,” he said. “Everyone can make mistakes, but for goalkeepers and strikers, those mistakes can have significant consequences.
“We’re pleased with the result; it was a tough game against a strong side. Overall, we deserved that draw. Even if the goal was fortunate, our performance and adaptability throughout the match warranted a point for us.”
