Roker Report
Sunderland AFC's foremost blog and Podcast!
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Haway The Podcast | CAN WE MAKE IT INTO THE QUARTER-FINAL?! | We Preview SAFC v Brentford!
Chris, Gav and Andrew break down Sunderland’s League Cup fourth‑round showdown with Brentford tonight on Haway The Podcast. They discuss how far the Black Cats need to go, the potential impact on the weekend’s league fixtures, and what progressing to the quarter‑finals could mean for the club. The episode also teases listener subscriptions and offers links to the podcast and Roker Report’s SAFC fan site.
Starting XI: 10 Changes Predicted For Sunderland Versus Brentford
Roker Report predicts Sunderland will make ten changes for their Premier League clash with Brentford on October 28, 2026. Goalkeeper Melker Ellborg is set to start, while the back four likely features Trai Hume, Kevin Danso, Omar Alderete and Dayann Methalie. Midfield could see Habib Diarra, Jules Ahoka and veteran Alan Browne lining up, and up front Sunderland may deploy Chemsdine Talbi on the right, Timur Tutierov centrally and Malick Fofana on the left. The article notes the match offers a chance to reach the quarter‑finals and stresses the importance of a strong lineup against Brentford.
OTD (28/10/1961): Sunderland Hit Plymouth for Five at Roker Park
Sunderland thrash Plymouth Argyle 5-0 at Roker Park on October 28, 2026, boosting the Black Cats to third in the Second Division. Brian Clough scores a hat‑trick, while Harry Hooper adds a brace, including a penalty, and George Herd provides two assists and a near‑miss. Despite the absence of Charlie Hurley and Ambrose Fogarty on international duty, youngsters Dickie Rooks and Willie McPheat impress on a heavy pitch. The win follows a recent away victory over Preston and keeps Sunderland in the hunt for promotion, though they ultimately finish the season in third place.
Played For Both: Sunderland vs Brentford Edition
Ahead of the League Cup clash at the Stadium of Light, Roker Report spotlights three players who have worn both Sunderland and Brentford shirts. Goalkeeper Simon Moore featured for Brentford (2009‑13), earning a playoff‑semi final penalty save, before a journeyman spell that saw him join Sunderland’s 2024‑25 promotion push. Jordan Henderson began his career at Sunderland, collected every major English trophy at Liverpool, and returned to England with Brentford in 2025‑26 before moving to Chelsea. Winger Alex Pritchard, a 2014‑15 Brentford loanee, helped Sunderland secure promotion in 2021‑22 and is now a free agent.
Haway The Podcast | IS REGIS SENDING A MESSAGE?! | We Gather For A Post-Leeds Q&A!
In the latest Haway The Podcast episode, hosts Ant, Jonny, and Chris tackle fan‑submitted questions following Sunderland’s 2‑1 win over Leeds United at the Stadium of Light on October 25. The trio discusses key moments, player performances—highlighting Luke O’Nien’s reaction—and speculates on whether manager Regi S (Regis) is sending a message to the squad. Listeners are invited to share feedback, subscribe for daily Sunderland content, and connect via Roker Report’s socials.
Reader’s Corner: Sunderland Fans Need to Show Régis Le Bris More Patience
In his Reader’s Corner piece for Roker Report, fan Jake Taylor praises Sunderland’s 2-1 victory over Leeds United on Oct. 24, 2026, calling it a positive sign of the team’s grit and tactical discipline under manager Régis Le Bris. He highlights Luke O’Nien’s standout performances, earning man‑of‑the‑match honors in the last two games, and urges supporters to give Le Bris more patience despite recent criticism. Taylor also downplays the importance of the upcoming League Cup tie with Brentford, emphasizing the need for consistent league displays.
Sunderland in Europe: Why We Should Savour Every Away Day
Sunderland’s Europa League trip to Poznań offers a vivid contrast to the club’s domestic struggles. After a chaotic start—missed transport to Luton, an overnight airport stay, and a long border queue—the fans arrive in Poland to a sunny city, cheap food and enthusiastic locals. The article details the logistical hurdles, fan culture, and pre‑match atmosphere, highlighting early excitement as Tutierov’s header sparks the away crowd. While the journey feels like a genuine European away experience, the piece underscores how the continental campaign provides a welcome distraction from Sunderland’s Premier League woes.
OTD (27/10/2020): Sunderland Held to a Draw at Rochdale
On Oct. 27, 2020 Sunderland travelled to Rochdale’s Crown Oil Arena for a behind‑closed‑doors Sky Bet League One clash. Despite a shaky start and a red‑card suspension for Luke O’Nien, Sunderland took the lead from a Lynden Gooch cross to Charlie Wyke, only for Matty Lund to equalise ten minutes later. A second Wyke header gave the visitors the edge, but a late Matty Lund strike forced a 2‑2 draw, leaving Sunderland seventh in the table. The match featured a back three of Flanagan, Wright and Sanderson, goal‑keeper Lee Burge, and a late substitution of Danny Graham for Wyke.
Chris Rigg: Sunderland’s Latest Centurion
Chris Rigg celebrates his 100th first‑team appearance for Sunderland AFC, marking the milestone with a gritty performance in a 1‑1 home draw against Leeds United. The 19‑year‑old, a product of Sunderland’s academy, debuted under Tony Mowbray in the Championship and has since become a regular in Régis Le Bris’s Premier League side, despite competition from players like Enzo Le Fée. Rigg’s rise mirrors the club’s recent focus on homegrown talent, joining the likes of Luke O’Nien and Dan Neil as a key figure in a squad navigating a tough start to the 2026/27 season.
Andy’s Player Ratings: Newcastle u21 3-2 Sunderland u21 – Young Black Cats Lose Entertaining Derby
Andy’s Player Ratings dissect the 3-2 derby loss for Newcastle U21 to Sunderland U21 on October 26, 2026. Goalkeeper Isaac Allen earns a 7/10 for key saves, while defenders Alex Lienard (7) and Ben Kindon (6) fight hard. Midfielders struggle, with captain Jenson Jones (5) and left‑back Joe Neild (5) unable to contain pace. Striker Trey Ogunsuyi shines with a 7/10, scoring the opener and assisting Felix Scott’s second; he is named Man of the Match. Scott (7) also impresses with a goal, and substitute Charlie Dinsdale (6) adds width. Overall, the match is described as entertaining but defensively open.
Haway The Podcast | Monday Supplement With Nick Barnes
In this Monday edition of Haway The Podcast, host Martin and Andrew sit down with Nick Barnes to dissect Sunderland AFC's recent 0-0 draw with Leeds United. They debate a controversial point, praise a more committed team display, note that none of the summer signings featured, and question whether this signals a turnaround ahead. Barnes also shares his behind‑the‑scenes experience commentating in Europe.
Editorial: Sunderland Need To Go Back To Build The Future
Sunderland’s 2-2 draw at Leeds sparked optimism but left the club still chasing three points. Coach Regis Le Bris reverted to a defensive, ‘back‑to‑basics’ approach that showed grit and forced the Leeds keeper into saves, yet a lack of cutting‑edge attack cost them the win. Injuries to Brobbey and Isidor hampered the offense, and recent summer signings remain fringe options, with only Thomas Meunier a clear candidate for a starting role. The editorial argues Sunderland must rebuild around a solid core and address squad depth in January to secure a future beyond repeated short‑term fixes.
2 Up, 2 Down: Sunderland Stop The Rot Against Leeds
Sunderland broke their four‑game winless streak with a gritty 0‑0 draw at the Stadium of Light on October 25, 2026, keeping a clean sheet against in‑form Leeds United. Nilson Angulo stole the spotlight, earning man‑of‑the‑match honours with aggressive tackles and creative play on the left wing, while debutant Chemsdine Talbi made an instant impact with his direct style. Goalkeeper Robin Roefs delivered a top‑class save to secure the point, despite windy conditions that hampered both sides. The team showed improved cohesion and defensive resilience, missing key players like Thomas Meunier and Kevin Danso, but still managed to limit Leeds to few chances.
Talking Points: Solid And Steady As Sunderland Draw With Leeds
Sunderland held Leeds United to a 1-1 draw at the Stadium of Light on October 25, 2026, in weather‑whipped conditions that muted both sides. Brian Brobbey and Sean Longstaff created the best chances, while Chris Rigg celebrated his 100th appearance, delivering a solid performance. Coach Régis Le Bris praised the effort but warned that the team still lacks sustained attacking threat and must secure three points against Coventry to climb from the league bottom. With a league cup rotation looming, the Lads face a crucial week to turn their early‑season slump around.
OTD (26/10/1993): Keeper Wins Cup-Tie For Villa At Roker
In the League Cup third round on October 26, 1993, Aston Villa thrashed Sunderland 4-1 at Roker Park, despite Sunderland’s recent climb to 11th in the league under Terry Butcher. Villa keeper Mark Bosnich shone, denying several chances before Dalian Atkinson opened the scoring, followed by Kevin Richardson, Ray Houghton and a late strike from Phil Gray. Sunderland’s hopes faded after a hamstring injury to Richard Ord and an early goal from Villa’s Dean Saunders was missed due to chickenpox. The win highlighted Villa’s cup pedigree and left Sunderland reflecting on missed opportunities.
Andy’s Player Ratings: Sunderland 0-0 Leeds United – Windy Stalemate In Goalless Draw
Andy’s player ratings break down the goalless Sunderland‑Leeds clash on October 25, 2026. In windy conditions, defender Luke O’Nien earns Man of the Match with a 7/10, repeatedly thwarting Calvert‑Lewin. Sunderland’s back four – Robin Roefs (6), Trai Hume (7), Nordi Mukiele (7, left hurt), Reinildo (6) – and midfield anchor Granit Xhaka (7) all receive solid scores. Leeds attackers Nilson Angulo (7) and Bryan Brobbey (6) create limited chances, while substitutes like Omar Alderete (7) add energy. The match ends 0‑0, highlighting strong defensive work amid tough weather.
Haway The Podcast | “THIS GAME FEELS HUGE!” | The Lads Preview The Visit Of Leeds!
Sunderland’s Haway The Podcast previews Leeds United’s visit to the Stadium of Light, noting Leeds sit high in the table while Sunderland languish at the bottom. The hosts challenge fans to guess the starting XI and predict the match outcome, inviting listener interaction. The episode is part of the daily SAFC show, with subscription details and contact links provided.
Starting XI: Ahoka To Start? Changes Predicted For Massive Sunderland v Leeds Game
Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris faces a pivotal clash against Leeds, with a win needed to ease mounting pressure after four points from seven games. Expected lineup: keeper Robin Roefs, back four of Trai Hume, Nordi Mukiele, Luke O’Nien and Dayann Methalie (Kevin Danso suspended, Ballard out, Meunier injured). Midfield likely features Granit Xhaka, Noah Sadiki and Jules Ahoka, who is on the brink of a Premier League debut. Up front, Nilson Angulo and Timur Tutierov start, while Brian Brobbey remains a bench option until fully fit. The match is seen as a season‑changing opportunity.
Fan Focus: What Can Sunderland expect From Daniel Farke’s Leeds?
Leeds United, now seventh after ten points from seven games, are defying early-season expectations under Daniel Farke, who has shifted to a pragmatic style since promotion. Fans praise his steady leadership but note a ceiling beyond solid mid‑table finishes. Highlights include a 4‑1 win over Newcastle, a 1‑1 draw at Brighton, and a mixed 1‑1 result against Manchester United. New signings Tarik Muharemović and Nico Elvedi impress, while Harry Wilson disappoints. Dominic Calvert‑Lewin leads with four goals and an England recall, though injuries threaten his availability for the upcoming Sunderland clash, which also sees doubts over Anton Stach, Noah Okafor, and Joe Rodon.
OTD (25/10/1966): George Herd’s Very Own ‘Match Of The Day’
On 24 October 1966, Sunderland legend George Herd, beloved by fans for his energetic play at Roker Park, secretly married shorthand typist Barbara Wright at St Luke’s Church in Pallion. The low‑key ceremony, revealed the next day, was followed by a modest reception at Barbara’s parents’ home. Herd’s wedding night was cut short when his manager Ian McColl recalled him for a rescheduled match against league leaders Stoke City, which Sunderland won 2‑1 thanks to Herd’s precise corner that led to the decisive goal. The article celebrates Herd’s enduring legacy and his unique ‘Match of the Day’ wedding week.
Match Preview: Sunderland v Leeds United — Can We Start Our Season Now?
Roker Report previews the Sunderland vs Leeds United clash at the Stadium of Light on Oct. 25, 2026, kicking off at 16:30 with live coverage on Sky Sports and BBC Radio Newcastle. After a hectic week of European fixtures in Portugal and Poland, Sunderland aim to reignite a 40‑point target, having lost five league games already. Leeds sit a quarter of the way to that mark after a solid opening run, though fans note missed chances against Brentford and Brighton. Both sides enter the match looking for momentum ahead of a crucial Premier League stretch.
Score Predictions: Can Sunderland Find The Winning Formula Against Leeds?
Roker Report’s writers weigh in on Sunderland’s upcoming Premier League clash with Leeds on October 25, 2026. Predictions range from a 1‑1 draw (Martin Wanless) to a 2‑0 home win (Malc Dugdale), with confidence levels between 3/10 and 6/10. Key factors highlighted include the return of striker Brian Brobbey, the defensive stability offered by Robin Roefs, and the impact of set‑piece goals. While some see a tight, low‑key derby, others flag the importance of a clean sheet to protect manager Régis Le Bris’s tenure. The consensus: a closely contested match where midfield battles and set‑pieces could decide the outcome.
Haway The Podcast | “IT COULD GO EITHER WAY!” | Kyle Newbould From The Yorkshire Evening Post!
On the latest episode of Haway The Podcast, Sunderland fan Kyle Newbould joins Chris to dissect the current state of Leeds United at Elland Road and preview Sunday’s match. Newbould weighs the teams’ recent form, injury updates, and tactical angles, ultimately declaring the outcome could swing either way. Listeners get a concise, insider’s take on what to expect when the clubs lock horns this weekend.
Sunderland: Is There Really Any Need to Worry Just Yet?
Sunderland sit bottom of the Premier League after seven games, but Roker Report argues there’s no immediate cause for alarm. The blog points out two lost points against Ipswich and Bournemouth that could have lifted the club to mid‑table, while recent draws keep them out of the relegation zone. Key injuries to Brian Brobbey, Dan Ballard and possibly Wilson Isidor are cited, alongside concerns over signings like Kevin Danso, winger Malick Fofana and the unsettled Chemsdine Talbi. Manager Régis Le Bris must tweak tactics and give Omar Alderete a break before Christmas, but the author says the team still has time to turn things around.
OTD (24/10/1959): Martin Harvey Makes His Sunderland Debut
Martin Harvey made his Sunderland debut on October 24, 1959, in a 0‑0 draw at Plymouth Argyle and went on to become a one‑club legend with 353 appearances and five goals between 1959 and 1972. Born in Belfast (19 Sep 1941), the 5‑ft‑3 wing half broke into the side in 1963/64, replacing captain Stan Anderson, and earned 34 caps for Northern Ireland, debuting at 19 in a 3‑2 loss to Italy. He helped Sunderland win promotion in 1964, later shifting to left‑back, and after a career‑ending injury in 1972 stayed on as backroom staff. Harvey later managed Carlisle United and assisted Billy Bingham at the 1982 World Cup before passing away on 25 Nov 2019 at age 78.
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