'It was tough' - Alex Pritchard speaks after Sunderland's win over New Mexico

Sunderland beat New Mexico United 3-2 on their pre-season tour of the US.

The Black Cats have now won both of their pre-season games so far in the US, scoring three in both of them.

Goals from Pierre Ekwah, Isaac Lihadji, and another for Luis Hemir sealed the win over New Mexico, with just one more game v North Carolina FC before Sunderland return to the UK.

And speaking after last night's game, Alex Pritchard - who grabbed the assist for Hemir's goal - was quoted by Chronicle Live as saying:

"It was tough - especially with the climate and parts of the pitch, but it was all about fitness and we got that. It's been tough for everyone with the travel, climate, hours, sleep, and what have you but the boys are doing as best they can and we'll keep going."

And the win over New Mexico was in front of a number of Sunderland fans have who've made the long haul journey to the US to support their team in pre-season.

Pritchard went on to say:

"The fans are fantastic - we really appreciate them, everyone from the staff, the players, myself, the fans have been excellent with us throughout. Especially through my time here, these fans have been unbelievable with us, and long may that continue."

Pritchard looks to be facing an uncertain summer with the 30-year-old out of contract in a year's time.

He adds undeniable quality and experience to a very youthful Sunderland side, so expect Tony Mowbray to be utilising Pritchard heavily next season.

But with Sunderland moving forward and clearly favouring the younger players, names like Pritchard could be moved on when their contracts expire.

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