Sunderland hit with FA charge

Sunderland have been charged by the Football Association for failing to control their players in Saturday’s 3-3 draw with Manchester City.

Several Sunderland players reacted furiously to referee Phil Dowd’s decision to give their opponents a penalty towards the end of the first half of the Premier League encounter, when Craig Gardner was judged to have fouled City striker Edin Dzeko.

Mario Balotelli converted the spot-kick and, although the visitors regained the lead at Etihad Stadium, they were pegged back late on to share the points.

Martin O’Neill’s men are currently ninth in the Premier League table following the match, in which Sebastian Larsson netted either side of a Nicklas Bendtner header.

Sunderland have a week to appeal the charge.