3 days ago
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Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris admitted that he and his players were surprised by Liverpool in the first half of the 1-1 draw at Anfield, claiming that he didn't expect to be as dominant.
It was goalless at the break but the message in the away locker room during that time was to carry on going, because the Reds were not causing too many problems for their opponent.
"We started well and exactly how the game plan expected," Le Bris told Bein Sports at the final whistle at Anfield. "We were even a bit surprised to be dominant during the first half.
"The second half, we had spoken at half-time that this wasn't a surprise. We can play like that and we had to try and score, which was the case.
"After that, many talented players came on the pitch [for Liverpool] and they pushed. The crowd was noisy as well so it is normal to suffer a bit. We had the Isodor chance that he missed, but it is still a good point."
Sunderland, having only just been promoted back into the Premier League, remains ahead of Liverpool after this tie. Heading into the middle third of the season, the table remains very congested.
"We are playing our game and we believe it is possible to win anywhere," Le Bris told Match of the Day. "We showed the character in the squad.
"Liverpool has the ability to create chances. We had our opportunity to win, but it wasn't enough today to get the three points. They pushed us.
"It's good for our fans as well because they pushed a lot and they were very noisy in the stadium today. In three days, we will have a really tough game."
Next up, Sunderland head to Manchester City. At the weekend, Le Bris will turn 50, and his team will travel to the Etihad Stadium in another test of exactly what level they are at.
"I don't think [Pep Guardiola] will give me a gift!" he joked. "We will see but it is important to play the game with our qualities."
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Speaking to Sky Sports a little before his other comments, Le Bris had said: "It's a good point away [at Liverpool] and especially in this place. It is a privilege to play here.
"We played our football and I was happy with the first half. We played well without the belief that it was possible to score but we did in the second half.
"We tried until the end like usual. It is not easy and he gave his best but it wasn't enough. We didn't create enough chances in the second half.
"One of the main strengths is that they [the team] are humble and want to learn. If you don't learn in this league, it is impossible to achieve. We want to grow and be better."
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