I write following our exit from the Carabao Cup to League One opposition, having lost at the weekend to our relegation rivals. To the pessimists, the early signs are mixed at best; at worst, we’re staring down the barrel.
But not for me, and let me give you my single reason: possession.
When SAFC have the ball, we struggle; when we don’t, we thrive. An overly simplistic analysis of our opening three games of the season, perhaps, but a possible indicator of things to come nonetheless.
Against West Ham, we had 37.2% of the ball, with the visitors dominating possession overall. This fully suited the way we are set up as a team, as we sat back, dug in, and hurt the Hammers on the break to devastating effect (our summer signings have clearly been bought with this profile and playing style in mind).
At Turf Moor, Burnley ‘did a Sunderland’ on us, surrendering 58.1% of possession to the Lads. This didn’t suit us one bit, as was evident in our slow, predictable passing and vulnerability when Burnley broke on us.
As expected, we dominated the ball against Huddersfield, registering 69.9% of possession, but again struggling to be incisive in the final third.
It doesn’t take a genius to see that, as we approach Brentford at the weekend, I, for one, am hoping that we don’t see much of the ball for large spells in order to give us the best chance possible of success come the final whistle.
And this is why - based on the first three games - I believe we will succeed in our goal of survival this season. How many Premier League games are we likely to dominate possession in? Very few, I’d say. Despite Burnley intentionally doing so, I can’t see any other Premier League team surrendering possession to us on their home turf, whilst at the SoL, I equally feel most come intent on stamping their authority on games and quietening the home crowd, as seems to be the usual intent of most who visit Wearside.
Surrender possession; gain enough points.
Sunderland AFC: we’re going to be alright (as long as we don’t have the ball!).
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