Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
Sunderland have finally ended their six-match winless streak with a victory over Stoke City (2:1), yet their performance still raises questions. Bristol City also haven't been at their best, failing to pick up points. The team that addresses their issues more effectively will likely emerge victorious.
Sunderland
Concerns shouldn't centre on Wilson Isidor, who couldn’t finish the match. He is fit enough to participate for a short or extended period. However, Luke O'Nien's participation remains doubtful due to the same issue that troubled him before, according to Régis Le Bris. All other players are fit to play. For the hosts, it’s crucial that winger Tom Watson maintains his tenacity. The 18-year-old academy product, who burst onto the first-team scene in autumn after five goals in five youth Premier League matches, has gradually established himself as a starter. In the game against Stoke City, his two unlikely strikes secured Sunderland’s win, despite not playing their best football. These were the wonderkid's first goals for the senior team.
Bristol City
Bristol City played away against an outsider, losing to Portsmouth (0:3), a team with only two wins in 16 matches before that. The last time Bristol conceded three goals was in round 5 against Blackburn Rovers, but the scenarios are incomparable. Portsmouth didn't do anything extraordinary; they simply had the courage to press forward. Bristol City conceded two goals through their own overconfidence and complacency in their own half. Portsmouth had another clear opportunity due to the sluggishness of their opponents, saved only by keeper Max O’Leary.
Sunderland vs Bristol City Prediction
If Bristol City continue their careless approach against one of the top sides, they won't secure any points. Sunderland now have multiple scoring options beyond Wilson Isidor and Romaine Mundle. The hosts should not only avoid defeat but also manage to score at least two goals, as they have done in five of their last six home matches.
