Sunderland vs Preston
EFL Championship
Monday
1st January 2024
Stadium of Light
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the EFL Championship fixture between Sunderland and Preston.
Sunderland vs Preston: Preview
Sunderland form analysis
The Black Caps have experienced inconsistent form over the busy festive period in their push for promotion from the Championship. On December 13th at home, Sunderland ground out a hard fought 1-0 win over Leeds United thanks to summer signing Bellingham’s fine late strike. However Sunderland’s progress was checked just three days later, losing 0-1 away at Bristol City after conceding to Conway’s controversial first half penalty. Their troubles continued on December 23rd, well beaten 0-3 at home by free scoring Coventry City, who dominated throughout thanks to goals from Sakamoto, O’Hare and the impressive Palmer.
Needing a response, Sunderland battled to an important 0-1 victory away at struggling Hull City on December 26th with young striker Clarke netting a vital late winner. However Sunderland then immediately followed that up by carelessly tossing away two points on December 30th at fellow promotion hopefuls Rotherham in a 1-1 draw, with Clarke again scoring before Clucas’ equalizer. Overall it’s been a mixed bag for the side against varied opposition, showcasing their capabilities but also some obvious inconsistencies to address.
Preston form analysis
Preston North End have experienced mixed results over the hectic festive period. On December 13th away at struggling Huddersfield, Preston claimed an excellent 1-3 win thanks to goals from Browne, veteran Keane and Whiteman’s composed finish. However, Preston then suffered an alarming collapse in their next match at home to Watford on December 16th, thrashed 1-5 after taking an early lead through Keane. With defensive issues badly exposed, a reality check followed away at Swansea on December 23rd as Preston fell to a narrow 1-2 defeat despite Millar’s temporary leveler after conceding twice to in-form Patterson.
Needing a response, Preston battled to an important 2-1 home win over fellow promotion hopefuls Leeds United on Boxing Day thanks to Browne’s opener and Millar’s late winner after Leeds briefly levelled from the spot through Struijk. However, tired Preston then failed to build momentum, losing 0-1 at home to Sheffield Wednesday just four days later after a drab display with striker Johnson netting the winner. Overall it’s been a case of highs and lows for the unpredictable side, with addressing obvious defensive frailties now essential.
