O'Neill: 'A really spirited performance'

Martin O'Neill admitted that his side showed Manchester United 'too much respect' in the first-half at Old Trafford this afternoon, going in 2-0 down at the break.

Goals from Robin Van Persie and Tom Cleverley within 10 minutes of one another did for the Black Cats who put in a stronger showing in the second-period.

Wayne Rooney added a third before Fraizer Campbell pulled one back for the Lads, opening his account for the season with a consolation strike.

Speaking afterwards to safc.com, O'Neill admitted his side had made it easy for the Red Devils during the first period:

"Coming to Old Trafford can sometimes be daunting and I think we gave a very good side a little bit too much respect early on in the game."

The Ulsterman continued:

"Their first goal was a mistake on our part and we probably should have dealt with it better," noted O'Neill.

"It was a really spirited performance in the second half,' observed the boss.

"We improved and created some very good chances. It could have made for a really interesting finish, but we were unable to put them away.'

Sunderland are back on the road next weekend, heading to resurgent Southampton.

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