Sunderland played out a dour goalless draw with Northampton Town this afternoon and many Black Cats fans have been left fuming at the referee.

Lee Johnson's men had not played since the 15th of December ahead of today's game and struggled to get out of first gear at the PTS Academy Stadium, with neither side able to create many clear-cut chances.

Charlie Wyke had the Black Cats' two best opportunities, which came at opposite ends of his time on the pitch, heading over a chance from a free-kick early on and scooping an effort over the top shortly before he was replaced.

The fluidity of the game was not helped by the performance of Leigh Doughty, who was inconsistent with his decision-making.

Experienced midfielder Grant Leadbitter seemed to spend a fair amount of the game in conversation with the referee, with a heavy challenge on Josh Scowen particularly infuriating him.

Sunderland's postponed games have seen them drop down the League One table into 11th and they were unable to close the gap on the top six today.

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The referee's performance at the PTS Academy Stadium seems to have struck a nerve with supporters, with many Black Cats fans taking to Twitter to vent their fury after the game.

Read their reactions here: