Ep 5. Sticking Plasters

In Sunderland 'Til I Die season 1 episode 5, titled "Sticking Plasters," the focus shifts to the club's injury crisis and the impact it has on the team's performance. As the season progresses, more and more players are falling prey to injuries, leaving the team struggling to keep up with the pace of the league.

The episode starts with a recap of the previous game, which saw Sunderland suffer a demoralizing defeat to Bristol City. We see the players and coaching staff go through a video analysis of the match, trying to identify the reasons for their poor showing. The recurring theme that emerges is the number of injuries, with players being pulled off the field one after the other.

As the team gears up for the next game against Brentford, the injury crisis deepens, with several key players ruled out of the match. This puts the coaching staff in a tight spot, as they struggle to put together a team that can compete against their opponents. We see the physio team working overtime to patch up the injured players and get them back on the field, using various techniques like acupuncture and strapping tapes.

Despite their best efforts, the team faces yet another defeat, leaving everyone frustrated and disillusioned. The episode delves into the emotional toll that losing can have on players and fans alike, with every loss feeling like a personal betrayal. We see the fans venting their anger on the team, with some calling for the head of the manager and others questioning the players' commitment.

Amidst all this drama, the episode also shows the human side of the players, as they try to balance their footballing careers with their personal lives. We see Josh Maja struggling to cope with the pressures of being a rising star, with his family urging him to stay focused and grounded. We also see the players bonding off the field, with a group of them heading out for a night of bowling and banter.

As the episode draws to a close, there is a sense of uncertainty and apprehension in the air, with the team still struggling to find its feet. We see the manager, Jack Ross, addressing the media and admitting that the team needs to step up its game if it wants to stay in the race. We also see the fans rallying around the team, with a group of them organizing a protest against the club's owner, Stewart Donald.

Overall, "Sticking Plasters" is a poignant and insightful episode that showcases the highs and lows of footballing life. It highlights the importance of resilience and teamwork in the face of adversity, as well as the power of a passionate fan base in driving a team forward. Fans of Sunderland AFC will find this episode particularly engaging, as it offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at their beloved club.