On August 12, 1967, Sunderland and Hull City played to an exciting 3-3 draw in a pre-season friendly at Boothferry Park. This match served as a critical test for Sunderland, who were looking to rebound after a disappointing 1966/67 season that saw them finish seventeenth in the league. The team, under manager Ian McColl, had shown flashes of potential, particularly during a memorable FA Cup run, but consistency had eluded them.
Sunderland entered the match with optimism, bolstered by the success of their youth team, which had recently won the FA Youth Cup. Fans were hopeful that the likes of Kerr, Hughes, Todd, and Suggett would complement the experience of established players such as Jimmy Monty, Slim Jim Baxter, and King Charlie Hurley. In the off-season, McColl made significant additions to the squad, including nineteen-year-old defender Brian Heslop from Carlisle and seasoned forward Ralph Brand from Manchester City, both for £5,000.
The match started poorly for Sunderland, as they conceded two goals within the first two minutes. Hull's young wingers exploited Sunderland's defensive weaknesses, with the first goal coming from Heath, who flicked a cross past goalkeeper Montgomery. Almost immediately, Chilton added a second, leaving Sunderland in a precarious position early in the game.
Despite the rocky start, Sunderland regrouped and began to dominate possession. On twenty-four minutes, George Mulhall scored a stunning goal from thirty yards out, pulling one back for Sunderland and igniting hopes of a comeback. As the first half progressed, Sunderland's attack began to look more cohesive, with Neil Martin showcasing his skills as a mobile center-forward.
The second half saw McColl make tactical changes, bringing on Heslop and Brand, the latter making his debut. The introduction of Brand proved pivotal, as he scored two quick goals within two minutes, both assisted by Martin. The first was a header that equalized the match, and shortly after, Brand found the net again, putting Sunderland ahead 3-2.
However, the match took another twist late in the game. With just minutes remaining, Hull was awarded a penalty after a controversial foul by Kinnell. Houghton converted the penalty, leveling the score at 3-3. The match concluded with both teams sharing the spoils, leaving Sunderland with mixed feelings about their defensive vulnerabilities despite a strong attacking display.
Post-match, the performance of Ralph Brand drew attention, with one reporter humorously noting that his only apparent skill was scoring goals. Brand himself acknowledged the need to improve his fitness after a difficult period at Manchester City, where he struggled with injuries and limited playing time. Despite the draw, there were positive signs for Sunderland as they prepared for the upcoming season, although the challenges of the previous year loomed large.
Ultimately, the 1967/68 season would not unfold as Sunderland had hoped, with internal issues and managerial changes leading to further struggles. Nevertheless, the thrilling nature of the pre-season match against Hull City offered a glimpse into the potential of the squad, setting the stage for a season filled with both hope and uncertainty.
Pre-season match details: Date – August 12, 1967; Venue – Boothferry Park; Attendance – 8,713. Final score: Hull City 3 – 3 Sunderland. Goal scorers for Hull: Heath (1'), Chilton (2'), Houghton (pen 82'). Goal scorers for Sunderland: Mulhall (24'), Brand (50', 52').
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