Match Preview
If Sunderland manager Paolo di Canio wasn't popular on Wearside prior to last weekend, he certainly is now. The sight of the fiery Italian manically celebrating on the touchline like a man possessed as the Black Cats put three past derby rivals Newcastle a week ago showed that his commitment, determination and passion of the game are all features that are present in abundance. Di Canio's personality could be just what Sunderland need. The victory over Newcastle was only their first win in ten games and with five fixtures left, find themselves three points off the drop zone having played a game more than 18th placed Wigan. Considering the Black Cats failed to win any of their final Premier League matches last season, it is easy to see why fans are starting to get a bit twitchy, and they will have good reason to be nervous today as they prepare to welcome Everton to the Stadium of Light. Everton haven't tasted defeat against today's rivals in 19 games, a run stretching back to 2001. Claudio Reyna scored the only goal of the game the last time the Toffees were beaten by Sunderland and to underline just how long it has been since then, he is now retired.
Predicted Scoreline
Sunderland 0-2 Everton These are worrying times for Sunderland. Their 3-0 victory over Newcastle last weekend was a much needed 3 points and a huge morale boost but I can't see things being quite as easy this time around. Everton are still pushing for Europe, however faint their hopes may be, and have an imperious record in this fixture.