Sunderland manager Jack Ross claimed his side looked 'leggy' in the second half of their 1-1 draw with Walsall in the FA Cup second round.

The Black Cats drew at the Bescot Stadium for the second time in seven days, forcing a replay a week on Tuesday back at the Stadium of Light, but more games is exactly what they don't need after a tired display.

Aiden McGeady continued his fine run of form with a first half goal which seemed to be sending them into the third round, but a second half equaliser from former Tranmere striker Andy Cook ensured they'll need another game to settle the tie.

Both sides will be in the draw for the third round, but Ross bemoaned the challenges his side have faced in recent weeks.

“I think in the second half, for the first time, we looked a little bit leggy, which is maybe understandable given the challenges we have had to date physically and mentally," he told the Chronicle.

He still took the time to stick up for his squad, who are battling at the top of League One, looking for an immediate return to the Championship.

“I am going to defend my players because of what they have given me of late - they have been very good, and today was the first time I thought it caught up with them a little bit.”

The Verdict

Sunderland are finding out that even a decent squad cannot prepare you for some of the challenges in the lower divisions. The Checkatrade Trophy dictates that many first team players are playing Tuesday / Saturday for much of the early part of the season.

Throw in injuries to the likes of Charlie Wyke and Sunderland have, to a degree, battled against adversity, but no more so than any other club at their level.

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