West Bromwich Albion have won the battle of the early strugglers in the Premier League with a 3-0 win over Sunderland.
Chances were rare in a tight first half between the two sides closest to the foot of the table in the early stages of the Premier League season.
However, West Brom were able to take advantage of the clearest opportunity when Stephane Sessegnon hammered a shot home from close range to give his side the lead against his former club on his debut.
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Sunderland looked relaxed in possession despite the deficit and could have been level before the break, but Adam Johnson's goal-bound shot was deflected just before it could nestle in the bottom corner.
The early stages of the second half proved to be equally as tight, with both sides trying their luck from distance as Sessegnon and Craig Gardner struck efforts wide for their respective teams.
West Brom had a great chance to double their lead with 20 minutes remaining but Nicolas Anelka could not direct his header on target from close range.
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Sunderland were dealt a double blow when Steven Fletcher missed a good opportunity from 10 yards out and was forced off the field after landing awkwardly on his shoulder.
The Black Cats were made to regret that missed chance as West Brom put the game to bed just moments later, thanks to a composed finish from Liam Ridgewell following good work by Morgan Amalfitano.
Sunderland had no answer for the hosts' second goal and Steve Clarke's side managed to add a third when Amalfitano drilled in from the corner of the box late on.
Callum Mulvihill
