"And it's Sunderland, Sunderland AFC! / We're by FAR the greatest team, the world has ever seen", or so the chant goes. Of course it isn't factually correct, but that's not the point of the song. It's about pride and devotion, even in the face of overwhelming odds. If there's one thing it means to be a Sunderland fan, it's being able to take a kicking and come out the other side with your support intact. It's a mental struggle with which the Black Cats have provided plenty of practice for over the years. It sometimes seems as though no club is more finely tuned to infuriating its supporters, consistently promising so much and failing to deliver in the most spectacular of fashions. Quite often, the privilege of feeling such a genuine connection to a football team can seem more like a curse, especially after a particularly embarrassing loss or infuriating transfer saga. Although supporting such an infuriating team can seem like one long, monotonous struggle, there are a few specific problems which Sunderland fans in particular have to deal with. From answering the same old questions from opposition fans to dealing with certain struggles particular to Wearside, followers of the club face a number of unique challenges sure to test their resolve. The fact that they keep returning week after week in the face of such adversity stands testament to their dedication and blind faith. Reading this list may prove painful for the Sunderland fans out there, but at least it'll ensure that nobody feels alone. For every clenched fist, bitten fingernail, and hoarse voicebox, there are thousands of fans who know exactly how difficult it can be. Add your own particularly painful problems encountered while supporting the Black Cats in the comments section below - lord knows there's enough of them.
