After a 4-0 opening day hammering of Plymouth Argyle at Hillsborough saw hopes of a season of non-stop sensation lifted through the roof, a defeat by the same score line at Sunderland delivered a slap to the face to remind Owls fans of the nature of the division.
Wednesday started the better of the two sides but saw the match turn on its head when Dennis Cirkin nodded in at the back post on the 11th minute. From there, the Black Cats dominated proceedings; Eliezer Mayenda and Luke O’Nien giving them a three-goal half-time lead before Mayenda bagged again to make it four.
The Owls simply couldn’t get themselves going and were well dealt with by the Wearsiders. Here are our ratings from a contrasting afternoon at the Stadium of Light.
5. Yan Valery - 4
Got stuck in but rarely looked comfortable. In possession he had a rough day. Was he out of position for the fourth? Taken off on 53 minutes to make way for Valentin. | SWFC / UGC
6. Barry Bannan - 5
A frustrated figure. Along with his teammates, tried to get things going but couldn't. | UGC / Steve Ellis
7. Svante Ingelsson - 5
Has tasted the highs and lows of the Championship within seven days. Dominant against Plymouth, less so this time. Made tackles but couldn't hit any sort of rhythm - from a difficult start, he got better as the game went on. | SWFC / UGC
8. Anthony Musaba - 5
Was a bright light in the opening exchanges, winning the ball and running at players - though his final touches let him down. At the heart of what little Wednesday created, but has to be more clinical. | UGC / Steve Ellis