Middlesbrough vs Sunderland – Match Preview

Preview

The Black Cats’ travel just 34 miles to the Riverside Stadium for the Tees-Wear Derby as Sunderland hope to build on their brilliant 3-0 win last Wednesday.

Sunderland have failed to beat the Teessiders in every attempt since the FA Cup 4th round replay back in 2012, could this be the time Sunderland finally get one over on Middlesbrough?

Middlesbrough legend, Tony Mowbray takes charge of just his second game for the Black Cats’ against the team he spent most of his playing career at.

He also enjoyed a 3 year spell as manager there from 2010 to 2013.

The Black Cats’ have had an impressive start to the season, and with a victory they could move up to 4th in the table.

Last time out they beat Rotherham 3-0 at the Stadium of Light thanks to a brace from Ross Stewart and a wonder-goal from Jack Clarke.

Middlesbrough, on the other hand have had a disappointing start as they currently sit 22nd in the table.

They will be hoping to move up as far as 17th with a win and start to build on moving up that league table.

The Smoggies have only won 1 game this season, which came in their last home match against Swansea where they came out 2-1 winners.

Former players, Duncan Watmore and Paddy McNair will be hoping to hurt Sunderland in their first game against their old clubs.

Sunderland’s talisman, Ross Stewart was linked with the Teessiders early on in the transfer window but nothing materialised.

The Black Cats’ announced 4 new signings at half-time of the Rotherham game, and they could be in contention for the game tonight.

Defender, Dan Ballard remains on the side-lines and Leon Dajaku is still a doubt.

Jack Clarke should be available despite being taken off on Wednesday night due to a calf problem.

Prediction

Middlesbrough 1-2 Sunderland

Scorers – Ross Stewart and Ellis Simms