Sunderland vs Crystal Palace: Preview & Prediction

This Saturday sees David Moyes’ Sunderland side still looking for their first league win of the new campaign, while Crystal Palace will be looking to build on their impressive win against Stoke City last time out by picking up all three points at the Stadium of Light.

It has been evident in recent weeks that the Black Cats have been struggling to score goals, and despite a decent performance against Tottenham in North London, the men from the North-East still couldn’t see out the point.

There have been some encouraging signs defensively for Sunderland, however they have been lacking the pace and creativity to really make a difference in the opposition’s half.

The home fans will feel optimistic that they can stop the rot and score some goals this afternoon.

Opposing boss Alan Pardew will be pleased how his Palace side showed ruthlessness in front of goal at Selhurst Park last week.

New signing Christian Benteke already looks a perfect fit for the club, as he has been getting regular service from the width of Andros Townsend and Wilfried Zaha.

The Eagles sit in an impressive eighth place, and will be confident on capitalising on the inconsistent form of Sunderland in order to propel themselves further up the table.

Palace fans will be hopeful that the team can shake off their midweek defeat to Southampton in the EFL cup and respond with a solid performance in the league.

Eagles winger Zaha – Photo: Charlotte Wilson / Offside.

Team News:

Victor Anichebe and Fabio Borini are both long-term injuries for the Black Cats, while Wahbi Khazri is a doubt for the game with a knock.

Palace defender Pape Souare will be out for at least six months, Scott Dann and James Tomkins are unlikely to feature as they have minor injuries.

League Positions: Sunderland- 19th (1pt); Crystal Palace – 8th (7pts)
Previous Meetings: Sunderland 2-2 Crystal Palace (March 1, 2016)
Form: Sunderland – LLDLL; Crystal Palace – LLDWW
Key Men: Sunderland – Jermain Defoe; Crystal Palace – Christian Benteke
Shoot Says: 0-1