Keane blames ‘poor goals’ for Black Cats’ defeat

SUNDERLAND boss Roy Keane identified a “crazy spell” for his side’s 4-1 defeat at Preston.

The Black Cats tasted a second successive away defeat and never looked like getting back in the game after going behind.

Danny Dichio headed home a first league goal for Preston in his 42nd appearance and Graham Alexander’s penalty and Dean Whitehead’s own goal made it a three-goal cushion at the break.

Simon Whaley took 10 minutes to add a fourth before Stanislav Varga headed a consolation for the Black Cats.

Keane said: “It was disappointing. They were poor goals to give away and it was a bad day. The second goal was vital and it was a crazy spell from our point of view.

“They might say they took their foot off the gas and we created one or two chances but the 4-1 scoreline is maybe a little bit harsh on us.”

The visitors saw a number of chances cleared off the line and despite the heaviest defeat he has suffered in charge of the Black Cats, Keane was happy with his side’s reaction to going four goals down.

“There were one or two plusses. The reaction when we were 4-0 down, you’re thinking it could be one of those days where it could be more.

“But the players reacted well and knuckled down. It’s the easiest thing in the world just to chuck it in. I was disappointed with the goals but they were honest mistakes and I can’t fault the players for their efforts.

“But in the last couple of games especially away from home, the opposition have found it easy to score against us and that’s not something I want.”

North End are now nine matches unbeaten in the league and move up to third in the Championship.