McCarthy bemoans quality

Mick McCarthy believes Chelsea's class was the difference in Sunderland's 2-0 loss at Stamford Bridge.

The Black Cats matched the Premiership champions for long periods in West London before a mistake allowed Geremi to open the scoring.

Kelvin Davis took a quick throw to Andy Welsh, but he failed to control the pass allowing Geremi to drill the ball under the keeper from outside the box.

The points were sealed late on when Damien Duff's pinpoint cross was headed home by Didier Drogba and now McCarthy believes their next game against West Brom is massive.

"In the first half I thought we were very good," said McCarthy. "We've not been much of a goal threat, but were we meant to be? Mistakes have cost us.

"We did well in the game for 55 minutes, but then two mistakes have cost us. We can't afford to make mistakes as we're being punished.

"Welshy should have done better and Kelvin has come in and apologised. Their second goal has come from a bit of quality that we've lacked.

"We just have to keep going and see if we can get that first win and turn things around. We've got West Brom at home now and that is a vital game."

Davis revealed once the side were back in the dressing room he and Welsh tried to take the blame for allowing Geremi to open the scoring for Chelsea.

"We've spoken about it and we're both trying to take the blame. It was unfortunate," said Davis.

"I feel embarrassed to be sitting in the dressing room with them. They've played very well.

"In the end an error has cost us the game."