If a writer for Sky one show Dream Team had submitted a script mirroring SAFC’s fortunes since the last time Ajax played at the SOL they would have been fired on the spot for being over the top. However as we know all too well the truth is a lot stranger than fiction.

It doesn’t seem that long ago that Ajax were in town to open the SOL, but this afternoon they were back led by manager Marco Van Basten. The Dutch legend who was full of praise for Quinny and Keane in the build up to the game and it was good to see such a well respected figure in the game recognising the potential at Sunderland. Last summer when we faced Juve in preseason at the SOL its fair to say I was indifferent after signing Halford, McShane and Co.

Luckily for us things are looking good. After ensuring survival last season the past two weeks have seen Sunderland make genuinely exciting signings. Hopefully though there’s more to follow Diouf and co through the door before the transfer window closes.

Having signed loads of midfielders this summer it was no surprise to see Sunderland line up with the controversial 4-5-1 formation. This tactic is quickly becoming the marmite of football, you either love it or hate it. Man U fans love it, but they would with Rooney, Ronaldo, Tevez and Giggs at their disposal. However Sunderland fans who witnessed the game at Newc666le would be quick to point out the system’s flaws. However, by adding quality flair players like Diouf and Malbranque I’m sure this formation would be more warmly welcomed by Sunderland fans if we had a striker to hold the ball up. Of course we do but David James decided to wipe him out.

So it was up to Daryl Murphy to again occupy the lone striker role he played at Notts Forest on Wednesday. The five man midfield behind him comprised of Stokes on the left, Whitehead, Tainio, Reid and Diouf. In defence Chimbonda at right back, Noz and Collins centre half, Higginbotham left back.

The signing of Chimbonda is also interesting as one of the plusses of last season, well at least from January, was the performances of Phil Bardsley. Having struggled to find a decent right back since Chris Makin left its pleasing to have two good options in that position.

The game started as you would expect any pre-season/glorified training game to begin. All the players had a touch and strolled around the lush surface at half pace. Ajax forced the first chance after some slick passing put alleged Arsenal target Huntelar fired straight at Craig Gordon who parried the ball to safety.

The lads stepped up their game with new signings Diouf, Chimbonda and Tainio showing touches of quality that were lacking last season. Diouf who looked the most dangerous Sunderland player in the first half laid the ball off to Stokes who fired well over.

Sunderland continued to press without carving any clear opportunities. Stokes brought down a hoof from the back and beat two men before he was hacked down on the edge of the area. Reid stood over the free kick confidently but blasted well over.

The lads ended the half well when Daryl Murphy, fresh from signing a contract extension, curled a shot just wide. At half time Keano made one change with Malbranque coming on for Murphy allowing Diouf to have a go as the lone striker.

Ajax started quicker than Sunderland and took the lead in front of their own fans. Craig Gordon made a double save but unlike Monty in 73 his second parry away fell to Huntelar who netted from close range.

The best effort Sunderland effort on goal came from right back Pascal Chimbonda. His bursting overlap into the box was spotted by Andy Reid who chipped a great ball into his path. Unfortunately for Sunderland Chimbonda’s effort was cleared off the line.

After that the game was pretty drab, which was not helped by the amount of substitutions, though minutes at the SOL will aid the development of youngsters Jordan Henderson and Nathan Luscombe.

Final Score: Sunderland 0 Ajax 1

ALS Man of the Match: El Hadj Diouf- Looked quality all afternoon.

Aidan Crowe

ALS Books click here