EPL 2016/17: 10 things we learned from Gameweek 23

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 17: Sam Allardyce, Manager of Crystal Palace shows appreciation to the fans as he walks to his seat pior to kick off during the Emirates FA Cup third round replay between Crystal Palace and Bolton Wanderers at Selhurst Park on January 17, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Ian Walton/Getty Images) — Big Sam is a happy man

#9 Sunderland’s can defend for a whole game

SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND - JANUARY 31: Mousa Dembele of Tottenham Hotspur is closed down by Jermain Defoe of Sunderland during the Premier League match between Sunderland and Tottenham Hotspur at Stadium of Light on January 31, 2017 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images) — Jermaine Defoe put in a great defensive shift for Sunderland

If there was one thing that the pundits doubted about Sunderland, it is their ability to sit back and hold on for a whole game. Over the season, the only way Sunderland have picked up points is by scoring goals. The Black Cats have only had a total of three clean sheets this season.

Hence, the fact that they held a brilliant attacking team like Tottenham for 90 minutes will be very satisfying for David Moyes. However, with all their rivals picking up points, this point seems a bit of a bittersweet one.

About the author

Third year Sports Management student studying at Loughborough University.
From Chennai, India and based in Loughborough, UK.

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Edited by Staff Editor