Alan Pardew’s Crystal Palace face a long trek to Wearside as they look to ride a huge wave of momentum into the clash with Sunderland.
Palace shocked champions Manchester City on Monday night with a hard fought win under the lights at Selhurst Park. Both teams have new managers since the Black Cats snatched a win back in November as Gus Poyet’s side defeated Neil Warnock’s Palace.
On Bank Holiday Monday Glenn Murray’s first half strike, for his fifth goal in as my many games, put the Eagles ahead. Jason Puncheon’s magnificent free kick then doubled Palace’s advantage. A late strike from Yaya Toure however could not prevent Pelligrini’s side from defeat.
Sunderland will also be looking to capitalize on a good result after beating local rivals Newcastle United in the Tyne Wear derby for the fifth consecutive time. They know another three points will drag them away from the relegation places. Jermain Defoe’s thunderbolt being the difference between the two sides.
Team News
Sunderland
Dick Advocaat is without midfielders Emmanuel Giaccherini (ankle) as well as defender Wes Brown (knee). Seb Larsson misses through suspension.
Crystal Palace
Mile Jedinak makes his return from a four game ban. Striker Marouane Chamakh may make the bench as well as Korean Chung Yong-Lee who is yet to play for the Eagles. Frazier Campbell (hamstring) and Jordon Mutch (thigh) are both sidelined.
One To Watch
Jermain Defoe (England)
The veteran striker has proved to be a valuable addition to the Sunderland squad who have been struggling for goals as of late. The £14 million transfer fee was seen as an astronomical price tag for the 32 year old but his experience has helped lift the Mackams since moving back to England from Toronto.
Form Guide
Palace having still only lost twice in twelve league games under Alan Pardew are clear favourites for this one as Pardew now eyes at top ten finish for his team. Sunderland managed their first win in eight games and are sitting only three points above the relegation spots.
Predictions
The hosts have some belief after the win against their bitter rivals but the question will be can they get up for other games. Palace travel on the crest of a wave and will be looking for a fourth win in a row. It is hard to see anything other than a relegation battle for the Black Cats.
- EPL Index prediction – away win
- Sky Sports Pundit Paul Merson’s prediction – away win
- Who Scored prediction – away win
- My prediction – away win
- Betting odds – not available at time of article
