Sunderland’s good run of form continued last night as they edged past struggling Tranmere at Prenton Park, winning 1-0.
The Black Cats had been under pressure coming out of the Christmas period, with manager Phil Parkinson feeling the heat, but a strong run of games has seen them climb into the top six and mount a serious playoff challenge.
Sunderland had barely had a shot at goal when they took the lead in the second half. Charlie Wyke, a player lacking form for the Wearsiders, headed home Chris Maguire’s free kick at the front post.
In a scrappy game punctuated by numerous fouls, Tranmere had perhaps been the better team in the first half, but failed to pressure the Sunderland defence rearguard.
The result leaves Tranmere six points adrift of MK Dons in the final safety spot. It sets up a nervous few months for Mickey Mellon’s side, who were only promoted last season through the play-offs and have enjoyed a good run in the FA Cup. When Man Utd visited last weekend, the pitch took much of the focus and once again the Prenton Park turf took centre stage.
Fans from both sides took to Twitter to discuss the game, which certainly wasn’t a classic.
Most undeserved win so far this season by any team at PP. Not bitter just you didnt play great. Also most dirtiest team so far. Good luck rest of season ?
— Hardcore Fans' Appreciation (@FansNotTourists) January 29, 2020
Big result against that pitch like. Well done lads!
— Dan Howe (@DanielHowe1303) January 29, 2020
Great result that tonight under difficult conditions. #SAFC
— Antony Peace (@AntPeace) January 29, 2020
Well done lads on a horrendous pitch. The ball wouldn't even bounce on the flanks due to how much sand was on it.
— Kev-B (@Tog41) January 29, 2020
That result is better than it looks. Horrible pitch, struggling side who would have been looking to respond after a drubbing at the weekend. Another clean sheet with a new defender in the side. Haway me bonny lads.
— this snowflake's an avalanche (@Safc19732) January 29, 2020
Was a poor pitch, but a similar performance to Doncaster game. We don’t look much of a goal threat!
— Gav Newman (@gav_gavnewman) January 29, 2020
Disgrace of a season…I wish we could just end it now, we know where its heading and we have done for months…
— Myles Faulkner (@Myles_Trfc) January 29, 2020
Not good enough. Story of our season start well, don’t score, concede a set piece, persist with Perkins repeat next game. We don’t make subs unless we have to and we’re going down without a fight too many home defeats.
— Mark R (@thebagwell85) January 29, 2020
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