5 Things We Learned From Newcaslte 0-3 Sunderland

Sunderland ran out 3-0 winners at Newcastle this afternoon in a highly entertaining clash between the North East rivals. Goals from Fabio Borini, Adam Johnson and Jack Colback were enough for the Black Cats to claim all three points. Here are five things we learned from the game.

1) Sunderland have breathing space

The win takes Sunderland up to 12th in the league, though results in the 3 o’clock games could change that. Before Poyet took over the Black Cats looked dead and buried but he has rejuvenated the squad and they now look like strong contenders to stay up.

2) Pardew in trouble

There will be doubts in the other camp though, as Newcastle lose pace with the top six and failed to score in the second game forward. Fans seem to be losing patience with the boss, who still has a long way to run on his contract.

3) Adam Johnson the leading star

He is now the top scorer in the Premier League in 2014 and has scored or assisted in nine of the last 10 Sunderland goals, I believe. His willingness to run at players and shoot from any angle makes him a slippery customer to deal with, which the Magpies learned today.

4) Bridcutt a Premier League player

Arriving from Brighton, Bridcutt made his Sunderland, and Premier League, debut today and he was outstanding. His distribution, his awareness and the way he bustled Newcastle players off the ball was great to watch.

5) Mannone a wall

Newcastle had 28 shots on goal this afternoon, with 10 hitting the target, but Mannone was incredible between the sticks. He made nine saves, including one spectacular one from a Cheik Tiote strike.