Martin O'Neill praises spirit despite defeat

Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill has insisted that his side deserve credit for the way they fought back despite slipping to defeat against West Bromwich Albion.

Steve Clarke's side were gifted a two-goal lead at the Stadium of Light before the hosts rallied in the second half.

Stephane Sessegnon reduced the deficit to 3-2 with minutes remaining before West Brom wrapped up the points with a goal deep into stoppage time.

O'Neill has praised his side's reaction to a disappointing first half and believes that they are close to turning round a dismal run of home form.

He told the club's official website: "After going behind we were trying to force the issue for most of the game and that left gaps at the back, which West Bromwich Albion were always going to try and exploit.

"We reacted strongly in the second half. We put absolutely and utterly everything into the game and almost forced a third goal just before they scored.

"After having our confidence restored on the back of our recent performances I thought we might have been able to get the win today. That confidence did show, but we were hit with those goals at a crucial time. We'll be ready to go again on Tuesday."

The Black Cats are back in action in midweek when they host Queens Park Rangers in Harry Redknapp's first match in charge.