Sunderland and Spurs locks horns at the Stadium of Light in Sunday’s lunchtime kick-off, with both teams searching for their first victory of the campaign. The Black Cats recovered from a dreadful opening two Gameweeks – in which they shipped seven goals – to record consecutive draws, while Spurs are unbeaten since a defeat to Manchester United in the opening Gameweek.
Although Sunderland’s rearguard have been breached the most frequently this season – and conceded the most shots inside the box (49) – their attack has been quietly efficient at the other end, boasting the second best shot conversion rate (17.6%) of any team in the league. That being said, only rivals Newcastle United have fashioned fewer attempts inside the area (18), which suggests they’ll struggle to maintain that scoring rate unless they create more.
With only three goals to their name – despite ranking joint-top for big chances (nine) and fourth for shots on target (23) – Spurs’ finishing has flattered to deceive thus far. The fact that Sunderland have conceded five more shots inside the box (29) in their home fixtures than any team, though, should serve as encouragement for the North London club’s forward contingent.
