SAFC – THIS WEEK IN 1997
Sunderland kick-started their First Division campaign with a convincing come-from-behind victory away to Portsmouth.
The impressive 4-1 success extended Peter Reid’s unbeaten league run to seven matches, and snapped a three-match run of draws.
Pompey, though, started the better and were ahead in just the seventh minute, thanks to a clinical finish from Australian striker John Aloisi.
Sunderland, though, were quick to respond, with Niall Quinn levelling matters four minutes later and midfielder Lee Clark putting the visitors ahead by the 14th minute.
Winger Allan Johnston made it 3-1 in the 33rd minute, with the Wearsiders taking total control.
The second half saw the introduction of new signing Nicky Summerbee for his debut, following his arrival from Manchester City.
He replaced Martin Smith at the break and proved Reid’s decision right by killing off Portsmouth with a fourth Sunderland goal midway through the half.
The unbeaten run reached 16 matches, with seven more wins and two draws, before a setback defeat away to Norwich.
Sunderland finished the season on 90 points, a point outside the automatic promotion places, and went on to reach the play-off final only to lose on penalties after an epic 4-4 Wembley draw with Charlton Athletic.