We’ve got a siege mentality & need the fans with us

confessed: “I am thrilled to have got this win.

“Bits of it were not as nice as I would have liked but it was vital if we were going to stay in touch with the other clubs around us.

“The players showed resilience. We needed all the players to be together, the staff, the fans.

“We have got a good siege mentality going. We also need the crowd to be with us all the way.”

This was the Hornets’ fourth successive defeat on their travels as Sunderland rose off the bottom by leapfrogging Swansea and Hull.

The nerves gripping the Stadium of Light were palpable – especially in the first half as Watford dominated in a scrappy opening.

But out of the dross came the gloss through Van Aanholt in the 49th minute.

Largely redundant as an attacking force, Sunderland suddenly discovered their mojo.

Manchester United loanee Adnan Januzaj burst into life with a swift turn and probing through ball to Jermain Defoe. The goal poacher became the provider finding Van Aanholt, who shook off his marker and swivelled to fire in off the post from close range.

In a sterile season for Sunderland goals only three players have contributed – Defoe, Victor Anichebe and Van Aanholt, who now has three.

The Dutchman typified the grit and determination the club need if they are to survive yet another testing season at the wrong end of the table. That was certainly needed when the fourth of f icial’s