What we learnt from Sunderland turning down The Gas

Sunderland claimed a vital victory over Bristol Rovers – but what did we learn from the clash?

Here’s three key conclusions from the triumph: 70 minutes, there was a belief that Sunderland would – by hook or by crook – score.

That newfound belief is a testament to the fine work done by Phil Parkinson and his squad to instil a sense of confidence into the Cats’ fan base.

No longer is there mass panic if Sunderland fail to find a breakthrough early on.

Instead, fans remain behind the side, confident in the belief that a goal will eventually come.

And so far, Sunderland are consistently repaying that belief.

One of Sunderland’s shortcomings last season was arguably a lack of depth.

Towards the dying weeks of the campaign, the squad was patched-up - Aiden McGeady taking injections to play and a lack of quality options on the bench.

Now, the story couldn’t be more different.

Parkinson has an array of options in every position.

No longer is an injury a cause for panic.

Indeed, it speaks volumes that players the likes of Ethan Robson, Declan John and Will Grigg can’t find their way into the match day squad.

They will undoubtedly be needed as the season reaches its climax, though, and such depth will be key to promotion.

Whether it be Jordan Willis completing a full lap of the pitch to applaud the home fans, Alim Ozturk leaping behind the dugout to sign an autograph, or Kyle

Lafferty taking selfies with supporters long after the final whistle – this is a team that understand the connect between Sunderland players and supporters.

Too often has that bond been broken in recent years, but this is a squad that ‘gets it’.

They’re backing the fans, and in return the fans are backing them.

Long may it continue.