Sunderland secured a 2‑1 win over Crystal Palace at the Stadium of Light on 17 January 2026, climbing to 12th place with 28 points and strengthening their push for a top‑ten finish. Ethan Harper’s early through‑ball set up Jack Hawkins for the opener, while a second‑half strike from Hawkins sealed the three points.
First‑Half Action
Early Pressure and Opening Goal
Sunderland started aggressively, pressing high and forcing Palace into a back‑four that struggled to settle. In the 23rd minute, Ethan Harper delivered a perfectly weighted through‑ball to Jack Hawkins, who finished calmly from the edge of the box to give the home side a 1‑0 lead.
Palace Equalises
Palace responded by dominating possession, reaching a 55% share of the first‑half stats. A low cross from James McCarthy found Michael Viera, whose powerful header in the 37th minute restored parity at 1‑1.
Second‑Half Tactical Adjustments
Manager Tony Miller altered his formation, moving Jack Bennett into a more advanced role and substituting right‑back Aaron McKenna for the energetic Filipe Costa. The changes paid off quickly.
Hawkins’ Second Goal
In the 58th minute, Costa’s overlapping run created space on the right. A cross was knocked down by Hawkins, who slotted home his second goal of the night to put Sunderland ahead 2‑1.
Palace’s Late Push
Palace shifted to a deeper defensive shape, looking to hit on the counter‑attack. In the 71st minute, Wilfried Zaha unleashed a low drive that forced a spectacular save from Sunderland goalkeeper Lee Wright, preserving the lead.
Key Player Performances
- Jack Hawkins – Scored both goals, decisive in the win.
- Lee Wright – Made a crucial reflex save, keeping Palace at bay.
- Liam Graham – Led a solid defensive line, earning a yellow card for a vital challenge.
- Filipe Costa – Provided the attacking spark after coming on.
Impact on the Premier League Table
The victory lifts Sunderland to 12th place with 28 points, creating a comfortable mid‑table buffer and reinforcing their ambition for a top‑ten finish. Palace remains near the relegation zone, sitting 17th with 22 points, and must regroup to avoid a slide further down the table.
Looking Ahead
Sunderland’s next fixture pits them against league leaders Manchester United at home, a test of whether their recent momentum can challenge the top of the table. Palace travels to Liverpool for a crucial away match that could prove decisive in their fight for survival.
