Sunderland drew 1-1 with Lech Poznan in Poland after Timur Tutierov’s early goal was cancelled out, with the visitors left to rue a series of missed chances in the Europa League.
Tutierov struck on his fourth Sunderland appearance, heading in Nilson Angulo’s cross after the hosts’ goalkeeper Mateusz Lis gave the ball away under pressure. The goal, scored barely a minute into the match, was the fastest in this season’s Europa League.
The 21-year-old was making only his fourth appearance for the club after being brought into the first-team squad following injuries to Brian Brobbey and Wilson Isidor. He spent last season on loan at Exeter in League One.
Lech responded quickly, forcing Robin Roefs into a fine double save from Radoslaw Murawski after the Sunderland goalkeeper had initially spilled Patrik Walemark’s effort. Daniel Hakans then missed a clear opportunity after breaking through on goal.
Sunderland continued to create the better openings, with Fofana striking the outside of the post after Granit Xhaka’s shot had been tipped away. Angulo also hit the post as the visitors threatened to extend their lead.
They finished with 25 shots, 11 of them on target, but could not add to Tutierov’s goal. Lech, who had lost their opening two League Phase matches 4-0 and had yet to score in Europe this season, levelled with 20 minutes remaining.
Substitute Martin Bengtsson fired through a crowded penalty area from a corner after a knock-down, with Roefs unable to see the shot until it was too late.
Sunderland pushed for a winner, but Chris Rigg could only curl an effort from 20 yards on to the roof of the net. The draw ended their winning start to the European campaign, although they remain unbeaten after collecting seven points from three matches.
Sunderland’s missed chances prove costly
The result continued a frustrating spell in front of goal for Sunderland, who had scored only six times in their previous seven Premier League matches. Their inability to turn a dominant performance into a second goal allowed Lech to claim a point despite their limited opportunities.
The absences of Brobbey and Isidor have reduced Sunderland’s attacking options, although both players are understood to be nearing a return. Tutierov’s goal provided encouragement after he was given an unexpected opportunity in the first team.
