Wednesday 22 October 2014 13:21, UK
Sunderland players have offered to refund fans who made the long trip to Southampton to see their side beaten 8-0 in the Premier League on Saturday.
Own goals from Santiago Vergini and Liam Bridcutt and strikes from Graziano Pelle (2), Jack Cork, Dusan Tadic, Victor Wanyama and Sadio Mane condemned Sunderland to their heaviest defeat in 32 years.
The travelling support, who made a 660-mile round trip to St Mary's, have been offered compensation which they have until 5pm on November 5 to claim.
Supporters who do not claim their refund will have the cost of their ticket donated to Sunderland-based children’s hospice Grace House.
Speaking on behalf of the squad, captain John O’Shea said: "We win and lose as a team, players, staff and fans, however we wanted to acknowledge and thank the supporters who travelled such a long way to give us their backing and despite everything, stayed with us until the final whistle."
Supporters are asked to return their match ticket either in person at the Stadium of Light ticket office or by post to SAFC (Refunds), PO Box 165, Sunderland, SR5 1WF. Supporters must enclose name and address details, along with their customer number.
