Regis Le Bris explains his big tactical switch to help Sunderland beat Middlesbrough

Regis Le Bris of Sunderland
-Credit: (Image: Richard Lee/REX/Shutterstock)


Regis Le Bris offered an insight into his tactical thinking after masterminding Sunderland's Wear-Tees derby victory over Middlesbrough.

Sunderland won 1-0 at the Stadium of Light thanks to Chris Rigg's goal, in a game which felt like a familiar script for Boro. Michael Carrick's side enjoyed plenty of promising openings and had their chances - notably when Tommy Conway headed against the bar early on - but they were left with little to show for it.

Ahead of the game, Sunderland's French head coach had - like Preston North End boss Paul Heckingbottom last weekend - spoken about how he had a good idea of what to expect from Boro. In turn, he caught Boro by surprise with his tactical plan as his early high-pressing style was abandoned in this one in favour of closing down the central corridor while allowing Boro to have the ball.

READ MORE: Michael Carrick left angered by 'big' referee decision as Middlesbrough lose to Sunderland

SIGN UP: Middlesbrough FC news straight to your phone on WhatsApp

Le Bris explained: “This was a game against a strong team, a very interesting team, who are very strong in possession. It was clear to me that they have the preference to have the ball and to keep the ball, especially in the central corridor. So we decided to close this part of the pitch.

"We needed to solve many problems during the game, especially our left side because they overload this side. During the first half, they tried to overload the right side so it was a different problem. This is a big factor for us because we can start with ideas because you have the possibility to analyse your opponents before the game. But when the game gets going and it evolves, you need to respond very quickly.

“That was the case in the game so I am very pleased. We worked both in and out of possession during the week and what we wanted to do in this game. When we get that balance right like we did today, it is good. Emotional control is important too. I felt that the team wanted to work together to find a solution.

"The second half was more difficult because they had the momentum and wanted to score. But the mindset of the team was very interesting today. We had this feeling in our shape that we wanted to defend together and find solutions together. We had many problems today and Boro play very good football. I like the way they play. If we don’t work together, we can’t solve these problems, so we’re very happy.”