Sunderland fans are no strangers to disappointment. Their FA Cup exit at the hands of Port Vale serves as another reminder that things can quickly go wrong. A Sunderland fan noted the loss “isn’t even in the top 10 most embarrassing things to happen to Sunderland in my lifetime”.
Waine’s Goal Sinks Sunderland
Sunderland lost 1-0 to Port Vale. The winning goal came from Ben Waine, described as a Kiwi Newcastle fan and Alan Shearer tribute act. Despite Régis Le Bris picking his strongest side, Sunderland lost to a team that clearly “wanted it more”.
Luke O’Nien, who some Sunderland fans famously didn’t recognise, made a significant contribution of note. He struck a thunderous backpass that his goalkeeper had to acrobatically head over the bar to prevent an own goal.
Silva’s Changes Cost Fulham
Marco Silva made nine changes to Fulham’s lineup. Fulham paid the price, losing to in-form Southampton. Silva found himself under pressure after the defeat. “I understand that I get the blame for making the changes,” he said.
Leeds Advance, Arsenal Flirt with Disaster
Daniel Farke watched Leeds brush Norwich aside in the Farke Derby. Leeds made the last eight for the first time in more than 20 years. Despite the win, Farke stated: “It is still not realistic for us to win the FA Cup.”
Arsenal advanced at the expense of League One’s Mansfield Town. They only won after flirting with disaster. “When you don’t close the games and they have hope and belief, that becomes more and more dangerous,” said Mikel Arteta. “And after they equalised in the game, you really have to dig in to earn the right to win.”
Port Vale manager Jon Brady said being in the last eight was “a bit of a pain in the bum”. He added: “It’s a privilege but it’s tough as well.”