Sunderland show promotion credentials
Sunderland 2 - 1 Sheffield United
Sunderland kept their push for automatic promotion alive with an entertaining victory over third-placed Sheffield United, who are now winless in three matches.
The visitors squandered a golden opportunity to take the lead when Kieffer Moore’s poorly struck penalty was saved by Anthony Patterson in the Sunderland goal.
Eliezer Mayenda then capitalised on a defensive mix-up to put the Black Cats ahead, but Luke O’Nien’sown goal levelled the scores. However, Wilson Isidor’s composed finish ensured Sunderland went into half-time in front after a chaotic opening 45 minutes.
Sheffield United dominated possession after the break but couldn’t find an equaliser, with Rhian Brewster firing wide and Sunderland surviving a late scramble in their box.
The result sees Sunderland remain fourth in the table and they are now just two points behind second-placed Burnley. Meanwhile, Sheffield United, who were three points clear at the top at Christmas, have slipped to third, three points adrift of leaders Leeds.
Both sides had stumbled over the festive period, each picking up just one point from two games. With Leeds and Burnley both dropping points earlier on Wednesday, this was a chance for either team to close the gap – and it was Sunderland who seized the moment.
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A closer look at what happened
The drama began early, with Sheffield United awarded a penalty after Luke O’Nien’s reckless shirt pull on Moore during a free-kick melee. But Moore’s tame effort, aimed down the middle, was blocked by Patterson’s legs, letting Sunderland off the hook.
The hosts took the lead when Jack Robinson miscontrolled a long ball, allowing Mayenda to pounce and slot home confidently.
Their lead didn’t last long. Gus Hamer whipped a venomous cross into the box, which deflected off O’Nien and into his own net, capping an eventful evening for the Sunderland defender.
Sunderland regained the advantage shortly after. Sydie Peck was dispossessed in midfield, and the ball quickly found its way to Isidor. The French forward danced past Anel Ahmedhodžić and slotted a composed finish into the bottom corner.
In the second half, Chris Wilder’s side enjoyed plenty of possession and territorial dominance as Sunderland looked to hit on the counter. Mayenda had a chance to wrap up the points but could only fire straight at Michael Cooper. Despite their pressure, the away side couldn’t find a way back, extending their winless run to three games – their longest at this level since October 2022.
Sheffield United will hope to get back on track away to Watford on Saturday, while Sunderland welcome Portsmouth to the Stadium of Light on Sunday.
