Sunderland secured a valuable point after Enzo Le Fée converted a late penalty to earn a 1-1 draw against Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium on Saturday.
Brentford appeared on course for victory after Vitaly Janelt gave the hosts the lead shortly after half-time with a well-struck half-volley.
Sunderland had enjoyed the better of the opening period but were left frustrated after Dan Ballard’s goal was ruled out following a lengthy VAR review.
Le Fée also came close to breaking the deadlock earlier in the contest when his effort struck the post, while Brentford struggled to impose themselves despite surviving several dangerous moments.
The hosts were dealt an early setback when captain Nathan Collins was forced off inside the opening 20 minutes.
Brentford manager Keith Andrews responded at half-time with three substitutions, a move that initially appeared to work as Janelt’s goal put his side in front.
Sunderland, however, continued to push for an equaliser and were rewarded eight minutes from time.
Substitute Wilson Isidor went down inside the Brentford area after coming into contact with Keane Lewis-Potter, prompting referee Thomas Bramall to award a penalty.
Le Fée stepped up and made no mistake from the spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to level the contest.
The goal also provided redemption for the Sunderland midfielder, who had missed a Panenka penalty at the same stadium last season.
Neither side could find a winning goal in the closing stages, leaving Brentford and Sunderland to settle for a share of the points.
