WANDERERS under-18s coach David Lee blamed a lack of ruthlessness in front of goal after his side lost a fourth successive league game at Sunderland on Saturday.

The young Whites lost 2-0 having squandered a hatful of opportunities in the north east.

Lee’s side could have taken the lead on 15 minutes but Will Abbotts was thwarted one on one and then Max Allen could not convert the rebound.

Wanderers were punished five minutes later when Jordan Blinco, who had already seen Harry Campbell deny him in his own one-on-one situation, gave the Black cats the lead after pouncing on a missed interception to curl home.

Abbotts saw another effort saved by James Talbot just before the interval but soon after half time, Sunderland doubled their advantage when Luke Molyneux hit a low shot that squirmed under Campbell.

The second half saw an improved Whites display but when Abbotts hit the post from just a few yards with the goal gaping, it summed up the visitors’ day.

Lee said: “We had three really good chances that went begging and should have scored three simple goals. The two goals conceded were from individual mistakes.

“Sunderland by no means outplayed us but our lack of ruthlessness in front of goal, and individual mistakes, were the difference between the teams. It is disappointing but it is an experience we will learn from and build on in our next match.”

Lee’s youngsters are back in FA U18 Premier League action on Saturday when they host Wolves.