We’ll never….” Chris Mepham’s six-word statement will excite Sunderland fans ahead of Championship play-offs
Sunderland defender Chris Mepham made a confident statement after his side’s 0-0 draw against Norwich, emphasizing the team’s ambition for the remainder of the regular season.
Sunderland played to a goalless draw at Norwich on Tuesday evening, with Regis Le Bris making several changes to the lineup that won 1-0 at West Brom on Saturday.
Le Bris brought in Eliezer Mayenda, Milan Aleksic, Tommy Watson, and Leo Hjelde, who replaced Jobe Bellingham, Patrick Roberts, Romaine Mundle, and Wilson Isidor in the starting XI.
The Black Cats lacked energy and creativity for most of the match, only showing a spark after substitute Enzo Le Fee was introduced.
Norwich had their chances, but Chris Mepham’s stellar defensive performance ensured Sunderland held onto the clean sheet.
The Bournemouth loanee was crucial in the defense, revealing Sunderland’s focus on maintaining momentum for the rest of the season.
Mepham’s Six-Word Statement Delivers Play-Off Hope
Mepham, who impressed in Sunderland’s 1-0 victory at West Brom, continued his solid form at Carrow Road.
The Welsh centre-back played a key role in the clean sheet, notably making a vital clearance off the line in the first half to deny a Marcelino Nunez strike that would’ve beaten goalkeeper Anthony Patterson.
Mepham completed eight defensive actions, according to Fotmob, and was instrumental in helping Sunderland withstand Norwich’s pressure.
After the match, the centre-back’s bold statement about the team’s drive for the rest of the season reassured fans that the Black Cats won’t let their play-off hopes fade.
Mepham told SAFC.com: “There is still plenty to play for. We won’t let things fizzle out; we’ve got momentum to gain. There are still areas where we can improve as a team.
It’s given us the chance to experiment with a few things, both on and off the ball, but hopefully that will put us in a good position at the end of the season.”
Despite the lackluster performance, Mepham expressed pride in Sunderland’s defensive display.
Mepham Proud of Defensive Effort
Mepham’s aggression and organization were vital in Sunderland’s shut-out, making it three clean sheets in a row following the international break. The team has learned from their 3-0 defeat to Coventry and has returned to being a hard-to-beat side.
Mepham added: “I take pride in clean sheets. Naturally, there is a lot of focus on attacking play, but I think tonight it’s important to come to a team like this and limit them to any real clear-cut opportunities.
That was pleasing. It’s a team effort. It’s not just the four of us at the back; it’s everyone who contributes to that.”
With Swansea visiting the Stadium of Light next on Saturday, Mepham will be hoping Sunderland’s resolute defensive displays continue as the Championship season nears its end and the play-offs approach.
