Sunderland Under-21s began their competitive campaign with a 1-1 draw against Jong PSV in the PL International Cup at the Stadium of Light.

The visitors took the lead in the 21st minute through Keziah Oteng-Mensah, who produced a superb bicycle kick to find the back of the net.

The Black Cats responded almost immediately and were level just six minutes later. Jack Whittaker delivered a dangerous cross into the area, with Tom Proctor cleverly allowing the ball to run through to Felix Scott. The forward then cut inside onto his right foot before calmly slotting into the bottom corner.

Chances for Both Sides

Both sides created opportunities to claim all three points as the contest opened up after the interval. Sunderland came closest to finding a winner through substitute Marcus Neill, who rose highest to meet a second-half delivery, but his header narrowly missed the target.

There was also an encouraging debut for 16-year-old Charlie Scorer, who impressed on the right flank after stepping up to U21 level for the first time.

Coach Pleased with Application

U21 head coach Craddock said he was pleased with how his players applied themselves. "I thought the application was really good. We asked the lads to be brave and to take the game to them, and I thought they did that for large periods," he said.

Craddock was particularly pleased to see the equaliser come from a routine the team had worked on in training. "The goal was pleasing because it's something we've worked on. We've spoken about getting the ball into those areas and allowing the player to attack it, so to see it come off in a competitive game was really good."

The head coach was also impressed by Scorer's first appearance at U21 level. "Charlie was excellent. He's a young lad coming into an U21 environment and he didn't look out of place. He showed good personality, he wanted the ball and he was connected with the team in his defensive positioning."

Craddock believes the fixture will provide valuable experience for his young squad. "These are the games the lads need. They're playing against good opposition, they're being tested physically and tactically, and that's how they're going to develop."

Next Fixture

Sunderland U21s turn their attention to the opening PL2 fixture of the season, with Nottingham Forest visiting Eppleton on Monday evening.