Elliott Dickman was left deflated after Sunderland under-18s squandered a two-goal lead at the Academy of Light on Friday.
The Black Cats deservedly led at the midway interval after Lee Connelly’s second goal in as many matches capped off a pleasing 45 minutes for the hosts.
While West Bromwich Albion had their chances, Dickman’s side produced a resolute display on the back of last Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Swedish winger Benji Kimpioka then doubled the Lads’ lead just after hour mark following a quick free-kick from Jake Hackett and that seemed to have wrapped the points up.
However, the Baggies were awarded a penalty with five minutes to go and Nabi stepped up and converted it with ease to swing the pendulum in Albion’s favour.
From there Sunderland were camped deep into their own half and while Michael Woud produced a wonder stop to deny a header Jordan Piggott was on hand to leather home the rebound and ensure the points were split.
Speaking post-match, Dickman admitted it was a frustrating result to accept.
“We were doing great we had a good shape and had a good work ethic,” he said. “But there was a silly mistake for the penalty and that really changed the tide.
“The bigger picture is that the boys are giving it their all and all the players, even in the top leagues make mistakes, so they will learn from that and its football.”
He continued: “We are all human and the main thing is now that we look to bounce back and take the positives from the game and hopefully put it right in the next chance we get.”