Sunderland vs Bristol Rovers half-time ratings: How Black Cats have fared so far

Sunderland’s League One campaign got off to the worst possible start at home to Bristol Rovers.

The Black Cats were behind after just three minutes when goalkeeper Lee Burge fouled Mitchell-Lawson in the box to give away a penalty.

Luke Leahy smashed the spot-kick high into the net to give the hosts the lead.

Sunderland rallied a little in an open game, with Denver Hume and Aiden O’Brien going close.

But they couldn’t find a way through before the break.

Here’s how James Hunter has rated the Sunderland players so far.

You can follow the second half as it happens in our live blog here, with all the post-match reaction and analysis.

LEE BURGE 5

Gave away a needless penalty inside 90 seconds and has looked nervy throughout

JORDAN WILLIS 6

Has done OK

BAILEY WRIGHT 6

Had a tough first 45 minutes against Hanlan and needs to be careful after being booked

TOM FLANAGAN 6

Got better as the first half wore on

LUKE O’NIEN 6

Saw one chance deflected wide

GEORGE DOBSON 5

Given the ball away far too often

CHRIS MAGUIRE 5

Looked off the pace and has not done enough in the final third

MAX POWER 6

Kept the midfield ticking over but has not really stood out

DENVER HUME 7

Brought a good save out of Jaakkola

WILL GRIGG 7

Looked a goal threat and saw one effort blocked just in front of the line

AIDEN O’BRIEN 7

His movement has caused Rovers problems, and he also had a shot blocked at close range