"I have looked at the goal on the video but more importantly I looked for a reaction which I got," the Black Cats caretaker boss said after the game.
"We needed a goal to give us a lift but it didn't come. I want the players to be aware of what has happened but then move on.
"The reaction in general was great, we had a go but what we have to do is improve the quality in the final third.
"The supporters were magnificent, they have played a massive part as well and the club is grateful for that.
"The players have set a bench mark but we need to push on from that. We must try and be positive because a lot of good things came out of the game.''