Leeds United 0-0 Sunderland: Finish in the top two but lose to the Black Cats

Leeds United moved back into the Championship's automatic promotion range but were left frustrated by Sunderland in a goalless stalemate.

Having won just one of their last 10 games, Sunderland defeated Leeds at the Stadium of Light earlier in the season and were once again able to thwart the Whites defensively.

There were cries of penalties for both teams, the first coming when Dan Ballard elbowed Crisencio Somerville's shot from the edge of the box.

Sunderland captain Luke O'Nien handled the cross for the second goal, but neither foul was picked up by referee Tim Robinson.

leader Leicester lost to Millwall Leeds fans were cheered, but Ipswich can replace them in the automatic spot if they pick up at least a point against Watford on Wednesday.

Sunderland's centre-half duo provided a formidable barrier for Leeds, apart from the penalty screamers, disrupting their usually fluid and prolific rhythm up front.

Northern Ireland international Ballard was a constant thorn in Patrick Bamford's side and earned a generous booking, but O'Nien swept away a number of shots from Dan James and Somerville with his head and foot.

Sunderland had plenty of time in possession at the end of the first half as Jack Clarke made the most of his chances, twice testing Ilian Meslier who drifted inside.

Meslier had to be alert to beat down Patrick Roberts' free-kick, while Ethan Ampadu had to be sharp to cut out Clarke's cross after Sunderland broke through the line.

Leeds had plenty of the ball but struggled to get in behind and were limited to potshots from long range.

Georginio Rutter took a powerful shot early on, but the whistle went wide, while Somerville's free-kick missed the edge of the box and hit the side netting.

Falke was angry enough to question referee Robinson at full-time, but Leeds at least earned a point on a night that lacked their usual sparkle.

Leeds United manager Daniel Farke told BBC Radio Leeds:

“It's a shame that we didn't create enough clear chances, and the only thing I was disappointed about was because that was the only reason we didn't win the game.

“It's just a draw and overall it's frustrating because we had a chance to make a big step up in the table and points.

“I’m happy with some aspects of the game. Compared to Coventry, we regained control, we dominated completely and our defensive behavior was really good.

“We didn't lose our nerve, put a lot of pressure on them and created a lot of set pieces. We were unlucky with some decisions. The handball in the first half was obvious and should have been a penalty, but , should have been given a penalty in the second half.'' This was also a clear handball and should have been a penalty. ”

Sunderland interim manager Mike Dodds told BBC Radio Newcastle:

“As far as the out-of-possession part, I thought we were really good. We obviously played them earlier in the year and nullified them then. They had one shot on target. “We were determined, but this is an achievement based on the talent they have at the top end of the Premier League.” Pitch.

“We didn't have enough possession. We need to be able to handle the ball more and that would have made it a more comfortable night for us.

“We've now had four clean sheets out of five games. If we can improve our possession, we'll be on par with anyone in the league.”