Sunderland have recorded a resounding victory against local rivals Newcastle United, thrashing the Magpies 3-0 in today's Premier League fixture at St James' Park.
Chances came thick and fast in the first few minutes of the game, with Moussa Sissoko dragging his shot wide for the Magpies and Marcos Alonso heading over for the Mackems.
Sunderland were given a penalty in the 18th minute, after Vurnon Anita brought down Phil Bardsley in the box. Fabio Borini made no mistake from the penalty spot.
The Mackems then found themselves 2-0 up just a few minutes later, as Adam Johnson tapped a rebound into the net from close range.
Gus Poyet's side could have been three goals up midway through the first half, as Borini and Jozy Altidore were able to link up inside the box before the latter worked some space for himself and fired a shot.
His effort, however, was easily saved by Tim Krul.
The Mackems continued to pile on the pressure in the second half, with Johnson able to weave his way into the Newcastle box in the 65th minute. The winger then unleashed an effort with several bodies around him, which cannoned off the post.
A few minutes later, Sissoko was caught in possession, allowing Altidore to run through on goal. However, Krul was quick off his line and managed to dive at the feet of the American.
Eventually, the away side were able to get a third, thanks to an emphatic finish by midfielder Jack Colback in the 79th minute.
Giuseppe Labellarte
