REGIS LE BRIS expressed sympathy for Illan Meslier after the Leeds United goalkeeper’s catastrophic stoppage-time error enabled Sunderland to claim a 2-2 draw at the Stadium of Light.

The Black Cats looked to be heading to defeat when Alan Browne chipped a poor shot into the area with his side trailing 2-1.

However, Meslier allowed the ball to squirm through his grasp, ensuring the game finished level as Sunderland maintained their unbeaten home record.

Le Bris worked with Meslier when the Leeds goalkeeper was in the youth set-up at Lorient, and while he was delighted to see his side claim a point, he felt sorry for the players whose mistake proved crucial.

Le Bris said: “I'm disappointed for him, I like him as a boy and a goalkeeper. Everyone on the pitch can make a mistake but for the goalkeeper and the striker, when you make a big mistake the consequences are great.

“This happened today. We are happy for the final result because it was a tough game against a strong team.”

Le Bris was happy with his players’ performance with the ball, but admitted they could have done much better when they were not in possession.

He said: “We started very well and in possession, we were able to create many imbalances (for Leeds) and many chances to score. Then after, I think we struggled out of possession.

“We decided to play with a 5-4-1 shape and I think this was the wrong choice, it was difficult to defend our box and apply pressure. At the end, we defended in our final third and when you make a mistake here, then the opponent can quickly create a chance.

“After the first goal we decided to play with a 4-4-2 shape and I think it was better, most of the time we dominated the possession. We didn't create many chances, I think fatigue was a factor in the second part of the game. We wanted to play but it was difficult for us to find a solution.”