Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill was left disappointed with defeat to Blackburn Rovers.

He refused to blame the weekend's FA Cup quarter-final exertions in the 1-1 draw at Everton for their failings.

"It was disappointing, obviously. It lacked the intensity of Saturday's game and we just reached no height whatsoever," said the Black Cats boss.

"I think we left a little behind at Goodison Park if I am completely honest and that might be a contributory factor - but it is not an excuse. That intensity at the end of the day comes from me so I have to look at that myself.

"First half we were sloppy in our passing and couldn't move the ball and should have done much better. Our best spell came just after they scored and could have equalised but overall we are disappointed."