… And home of the surest touch Sunderland AFC has created some of the most memorable Premier League moments this season. They feature a potent combination of defensive structure and attacking quality. Sunderland is enjoying the run of a lifetime, out playing and out scoring every team. Of their 23 points from 13 games, the most impressive has been a deserved victory over Chelsea and draws against Arsenal and Liverpool. This performance has led many to speculate whether Sunderland could be considered one of the greatest promoted teams in Premier League history.
The Black Cats have shown an excellent balance to their play. They are very strong going forward, overpowering teams in the attacking third. Yet at the same time, their defensive structure is incredibly hard to break down. Sunderland has exhibited the clearest focus on applying aggressive pressure to win the ball back quickly. Or why they’ve beaten out their competition by completing a higher volume of tackles, interceptions, and blocks.
Tactical Maturity and Defensive Solidity
A deeper look shows that Sunderland’s tactical savvy has often been the decisive aspect of their success. Using their excellent coaching staff as a soundboard, they’ve created one of the fiercest defensive lines in football. Today, opponents have a hard time getting through their shield. Even in matches against superior sides, Sunderland has continued to show the mettle of a side that has refused to crack defensively all season long.
During last weekend’s game against Crystal Palace, Sunderland’s defensive structure really shined. Palace only registered three shots all game, which highlighted just how well Sunderland were able to dominate the game defensively. While their offensive stats are pedestrian, their defensive statistics are astounding. They’ve not just completed more tackles and interceptions than other teams, but they’ve been particularly good at denying shots.
“It is clear that teams who play us think they can get a result,” – Arne Slot
This declaration marks the increasing realization of Sunderland becoming an inevitable tough opponent. In fact other sides now go into matches against them fearful, indicating that Sunderland’s reputation is rightfully growing.
Prolific Attack and Offensive Threat
Offensively, Sunderland has been nothing short of brilliant in her composure and creativity. Indeed, they’ve taken a higher proportion of shots on target than any of their opponents, a key sign of a more focused approach at goal in creating chances. It’s their attacking statistics, however, that really jump off the page. Sunderland have scored more headed goals (14) than any other team in the Premier League since the start of last season.
It’s this attacking prowess that has seen Sunderland take crucial points from competing with the best the league has to offer. They pulled off notable upsets against Chelsea. Combined with their draws away to Arsenal and Liverpool, those three results serve as evidence of Forest’s knack for tussling with the league’s heavyweights. Notably, their aggressive play while out of possession jumps off the page. It is their calmness in possession that really distinguishes them from the other newly promoted teams.
“Yes, of course it can be. I always mention, my football is never married to base formations, I’m addicted to principles.” – Daniel Farke
Sunderland’s coach Tony Mowbray is known for a pragmatic, adaptable approach. This flexible style suits all kinds of adversaries, but more importantly, it honors the foundational tenets of gameplay. This flexibility has allowed Sunderland to hone their tactical approach with each game they’ve played.
Positioning for Greatness
Sitting on 23 points through 13 matches, Sunderland would be well on their way to exceeding performance by newly promoted sides. Most pundits think they’ll not only break Wigan’s record, but claim the title of the best ever promoted team in Prem history. Their remarkable performance is turning heads and attracting lots of attention. Their mix of staunch defending and lethal offensive pace has them looking like legit title contenders this season.
The quality of Sunderland’s chance creation in conjunction with their control of territory has developed greatly since their ascension to the top flight. Such remarkable order and coordination — what a remarkable team! These three elements are key for success at this level.
As they work to layer success on top of this momentum, Sunderland’s potential really does seem limitless. Their start to the season proves that they’re not just happy to be in the league. They’re getting ready to become strong contenders for a top ten position!
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