Phillips fears Sunderland promotion dream fading after what he’s seen from Wright
Kevin Phillips fears Bailey Wright’s miss could be the moment which costs Sunderland a place in the play-off final.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the Stadium of Light legend said the 28-year-old should “definitely have done better” with the glorious chance he was presented at the beginning of the second half.
Bailey Wright spurned the Black Cats’ best opportunity on Wednesday night as they lost 2-0 to Lincoln City in the first leg of their play-off semi-final.
As quoted by the Sunderland Echo, Lee Johnson rued missed chances in his post-match interview but insisted his side can turn the tie around in the second leg at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
Phillips claimed the Black Cats’ performance at Sincil Bank epitomised their end of season struggles.
“Bailey Wright looked as if he was a bit surprised when the ball came to him,” he told Football Insider.
“There is no doubt about it though, he definitely should have done better. It was a huge moment in the match and I am not making excuses.
“I just think he was just surprised and got up a little bit too early. He headed the ball when he was on the down.
“In big games, when big opportunities come your way you have to take them. They are the fine margins which games are decided on.
“That performance last night just summed up Sunderland’s last six to eight weeks of the season. They have created opportunities but they haven’t taken them. It could be the difference in the end.”
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