Senne Lammens produced a series of saves as Sunderland were held to a goalless draw by Manchester United in their Premier League clash at the Stadium of Light.
The Belgian goalkeeper played a major role in denying the hosts what would have been a rare league victory over United, with Sunderland creating the clearer chances throughout the contest.
Noah Sadiki had the first major opening of the match after breaking through on goal in the early minutes, but Lammens reacted quickly to deny the midfielder in a one-on-one situation.
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The United goalkeeper was called into action again later in the game, racing off his line to stop Brian Brobbey before making another save from the Dutch forward in the second half.
Sunderland continued to press for a breakthrough and came close late on when Brobbey set up Lutsharel Geertruida on the edge of the area. However, the defender’s effort struck the post.
Manchester United struggled to create clear openings for most of the match after making five changes to the side that defeated Liverpool last week.
The absence of Casemiro in midfield was noticeable as the visitors found it difficult to control possession and build sustained attacks.
United nearly finished the game without a shot on target until Matheus Cunha forced a stoppage-time save from Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs.
Sunderland also felt they had grounds for a penalty during the first half when former loanee Amad Diallo appeared to handle the ball inside the area. Referee Stuart Attwell waved play on and VAR official Peter Bankes did not overturn the decision.
The result extended Sunderland’s difficult run against Manchester United, although the hosts avoided another defeat against the Red Devils.
United manager Michael Carrick admitted the draw was not a damaging result for his side as they continue their push to finish the season strongly.
The visitors are expected to strengthen their midfield options during the summer, with Casemiro set to leave Old Trafford at the end of the campaign after failing to meet an appearance clause in his contract.
For Sunderland, the draw highlighted both their organisation and their lack of cutting edge in front of goal.
Regis le Bris’ side recorded another clean sheet despite missing suspended defender Dan Ballard, continuing an impressive defensive run in their return to the Premier League.
However, missed opportunities from Sadiki and Geertruida prevented the Black Cats from claiming all three points.
Sunderland will now turn attention to finishing above Newcastle in the closing weeks of the season, while Manchester United prepare to host Nottingham Forest in their final home game of the campaign.
