DARREN Pratley praised Andy Lonergan for keeping Wanderers in the FA Cup.

The former Leeds stopper – making only his second start of the season – produced a string of magnificent saves in the second half to ensure a replay at the Stadium of Light a week tomorrow.

And though Craig Gardner’s blockbuster to make it 2-2 grabbed the headlines, Pratley reckons it should not take away from an outstanding performance from his team-mate.

“You can’t argue with that,” he said. “Andy Lonergan came in today and played very well but it was a terrific strike and that’s why they are up there.

“Adam Bogdan has had the number one shirt and deserved it. I’m sure it has been frustrating for Andy but he came in and showed what a good goalkeeper he is.”

Chung-Yong Lee and Marvin Sordell had given Wanderers the advantage before Sunderland came into their own in the last half hour.

Sub Connor Wickham halved the deficit before Gardner’s cracker and the Whites were forced to hold on in the end.“We’re a little bit disappointed we didn’t win the game,” Pratley said.

“I think it shows a lot when a Championship side matches a Premier League side.

“We did well but I think towards the end the manager is probably just happy we’re in the hat for the fourth round.”