Greetings from Read Sunderland! I’m Chris Sparks, and I am here to inform all you Norwich City fans of what to expect when you make the long journey to The Stadium of Light this weekend.
What Can You Expect From Sunderland:
On the back of our humbling opening day 4-2 defeat to Leicester City, many people are already beginning to write us off one game into the season. This may work to Sunderland’s advantage, with pressure situations not our best attribute in recent years.
Despite ending last season as second lowest scorers in the league, judging by our first game, our strongest area is upfront. Jermain Defoe and Steven Fletcher got on the scoresheet which will do their confidence wonders, and if we can supply the chances, they have proven that they will score. Wingers Jeremain Lens and Adam Johnson will need to be on form to create the chances or this game may end up a low scoring contest.
This is partly down to Sunderland’s 6ft 8 goalkeeper extraordinaire Costel Pantilimon. The giant Romanian was colossal in goal for us last term and was one of the key reasons why we are still plying our trade in this league. However, our biggest issue lies in front of him, with a questionable back four behind an inconsistent midfield. These areas are where Norwich will have to capitalise if they are to take all three points from the north-east.
Key Player: Jeremain Lens
The Marquee signing for Sunderland this summer in a £8-million move from Dynamo Kiev. The winger known for his pace and creativity is exactly what Sunderland have been lacking in recent years. The Dutch international impressed in pre-season but had a disappointing competitive debut last week. He will be out to impress the home support on his first appearance at The Stadium of Light.
Predicted Line-up:
Dick Advocaat is expected to change from his preferred 4-3-3 formation to an orthodox 4-4-2 in light of the second half improvement last weekend. Changes are expected with many appearing off the pace of the game against Leicseter. It will be very difficult to predict the line-up, with Advocaat renowned for keeping his cards close to his chest. ReadSunderland’s predicted line-up:
Pantilimon
Matthews, O’Shea (c), Kaboul, Van Aanholt
Johnson, Cattermole, Larsson, Lens
Fletcher, Defoe
Read Sunderland‘s Prediction: Sunderland 1-0 Norwich City
A close contest will be decided by one goal with both goalkeepers needing to be at the top of their game. I think Sunderland have the stronger squad and the game may be decided from the subsitiutes with Emmanuele Giaccherini and Jack Rodwell able to make a difference from the bench. To all Norwich fans, making the journey up north, enjoy the scenery and the sights (ahem), and let’s hope for better performances from both teams this weekend.
