Sunk by the Bell

Same old, same old.

For all the fact that it looks like this side will be ‘crowned’ the worst ever in top flight history, the most frustrating aspect is simply that we are yet to be completely outclassed this season, and once again last night we could, and should, have come away with something.

Sadly, the simple fact is, with a player like Bellamy in our side, no matter how repulsive he is, we would not be in the bottom three. A bold statement maybe, but one which I have confidence in making.

Add to that a strong and confident ‘keeper (say the likes of Mart Poom or Thomas Mhyre…), and Sunderland would be laughing this season.

As once again our No. 1, the inconsistent Kelvin Davis, was not assertive enough when it mattered most and handed Bellamy’s first goal on a plate, parrying Pederson’s lame volley into the path of the Welshman, who tapped in with ease in the 38th minute.

And once again our attacking players were not ruthless enough infront of goal, with Lawrence three times, Nosworthy and Arca all guilty of missing decent chances in the match. Chances of the like we have conceded to throughout this season.

Typically, Sunderland’s best chance – a Lawrence effort – was superbly blocked by ex-Black Cat Mickey Gray just before half time, and to confound our misery Bellamy wrapped things up early in the second half, placing a header past the helpless Davis.

Suicide rates in Sunderland may well have risen had the diminutive Welshman placed his volley a few inches closer to goal and completed a hat-trick.

Another loss for Sunderland, the winners once again the fans. Great away following, and bearing in mind the paltry home attendance here tonight and the attendances of clubs the likes of Boro and Bolton in the Uefa Cup (a competition we’d give our right arm’s to be in) it is phenomenal support.

One that is greatly undeserved.