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.
13. Pol Valentin - 6
Came on before the hour and did himself some good, joining up a couple of attacks. | Ellis / UGC
14. Liam Palmer - 6
Did the simple stuff well. Crowded out in possession a couple of times but largely did nothing wrong. | UGC / Steve Ellis
15. Iké Ugbo - 5
On with 20 minutes to go, leading the line in place of Jamal Lowe. Didn't get a great deal of joy but got important minutes in the legs. | UGC / Steve Ellis
16. Marvin Johnson - 5
On in place of Max Lowe with 20 left. Tried to get Wednesday up the pitch but by that time it wasn't that sort of game. | UGC / Steve Ellis