KEITH Hill wants his Wanderers to harness the disappointment of missing out on a first victory of the season against Sunderland.

Aiden McGeady’s injury time penalty dented an encouraging afternoon for the Whites, who had been on course for three points thanks to Jack Hobbs’ 50th minute strike.

Hill was happy with the work his newly-assembled side had put in but admits there is still plenty of scope for improvement.

“It’s gratifying that the players are showing so much effort because it’s a skill that costs nothing,” he said. “There’s a willingness from the players which is driven on by the supporters.

“I don’t want anyone to be disappointed. I want them to digest and realise that winning is hard work, it hurts, and there will be more pain on the training ground so we can turn in those kind of performances and make sure we win those games.”

Wanderers rode their luck at times. Sunderland twice hit the woodwork and Remi Matthews was called upon to make two stunning saves late in the afternoon.

“Let’s be right on reflection of the game – our goalkeeper was in magnificent form,” Hill said.

“I think there were periods of the game where we were very good but I can’t take anything from Sunderland, they are a juggernaut of a football club. They will be looking to get automatic promotion and you only have to look at the bench to show you what type of money they have spent in the summer and what players they have retained.

“It is a difficult task for our players but they stood up to it. And it was great to be cheered on by our loyal supporters. I think they can see what we are trying to do as a management team.

“I enjoy the way we play but I really enjoy the grit, the pride in the shirt.”