The odd trend shaping Sunderland’s campaign as Premier League anomaly emerges
Sunderland’s start to life back in the Premier League has thrown up a few surprises.
With eight points from their first five games, Sunderland have shocked many with how well they have adapted to the Premier League, after achieving promotion via the play-offs.
The Black Cats are yet to lose at the Stadium of Light, having only suffered defeat on one occasion so far against Burnley.
However, with Sunderland’s clash with Nottingham Forest approaching, a very strange trend has started to emerge.
Sunderland are yet to score in first half this season
Not only have Sunderland only scored at the Roker End this season, but all of their goals have arrived in the second half of a game.
In fact, alongside Aston Villa, they are one of only two Premier League clubs who are yet to score a goal in the first 45 minutes of an encounter.
Sunderland’s goals in the Premier League
- vs West Ham – Mayenda 61′, Ballard 73′, Isidor 92′
- vs Brentford – Le Fee 82′, Isidor 96′
- vs Aston Villa – Isidor 75′
Some will see that as a concern, while others will look at it as a positive.
It shows that the Black Cats are not wavering as games go on, which is often the case for newly-promoted sides, and ultimately why they fail to stay up.
If Sunderland can end games strongly, it gives them an excellent chance of picking up late results, though it will be crucial that they get off to a good start against some of the sides higher up the table.
Only Liverpool have scored more second-half goals than Sunderland
All six of Sunderland‘s goals have arrived in the second half of the game, while seven of Liverpool’s 11 have also followed the trend.
In fact, a handful of them have been in the final few minutes of a game, and very few concerns have been raised on their behalf.
With that said, it is a stat that seems far more maintainable for Liverpool, who have stars like Alexander Isak and Federico Chiesa to come off the bench to impact the game.
Sunderland certainly need to show more attacking impetus from the off going forward, but their current way of playing is working a treat.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest Sunderland news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account –@mackemnews247