Sunderland’s winless run in the Premier League reached six matches after they were held to a goalless draw by Leeds at the Stadium of Light, leaving Regis Le Bris’ side at the foot of the table.
Leeds moved up to seventh with the point, but neither side could find a breakthrough in difficult conditions as strong winds affected the contest on Wearside.
Brian Brobbey, making his first appearance since September 20, went closest for Sunderland in the opening half. He raced through on goal, only for James Trafford to smother his effort.
Leeds began with Dominic Calvert-Lewin despite Daniel Farke admitting the striker had been a doubt before kick-off. The decision almost paid off when Calvert-Lewin went down in the Sunderland penalty area after Ao Tanaka’s shot had been saved.
Appeals for a penalty were rejected, with VAR checking the incident before deciding there was not enough in it to overturn the on-field decision. Robin Roefs was judged to have got a hand to the ball, despite Calvert-Lewin reaching it first.
Sean Longstaff, whose return to Sunderland was met with boos, threatened to settle the match late on. Roefs tipped one effort wide before another was blocked on the line.
Storm Boelo adds to difficult conditions
The match was played as Storm Boelo brought powerful gusts across northern England and Scotland. Sunderland had been covered by an amber wind warning until 9pm on Sunday.
The club confirmed just over four hours before kick-off that the fixture would go ahead and advised supporters to “take extra care” on their journeys to the ground.
Farke was pictured arriving at the stadium as the wind swept around Wearside, with the conditions continuing to make their presence felt during the match.
