Sunderland produced a brilliant second-half performance to record only their second Premier League victory of the season at the expense of Fulham. The home side was reduced to 10 men though after the dismissal of Brede Hangeland after just 30 minutes of play. Steven Fletcher scored to put Sunderland ahead just after half-time, but Fulham levelled as substitute Mladen Petric fired home from close range. Then Sunderland hit back through Carlos Cuellar and wrapped up the three points with a spectacular strike from Stephane Sessegnon.
This was a crucial win for Martin O'Neill's side as pressure had begun to grow after a run of just one victory in 18 Premier League matches. Fulham had been in control for the opening half-hour and Dimitar Berbatov headed one chance over after four minutes and created another opportunity for Steve Sidwell. But then Hangeland was sent off for a two-footed challenge on Lee Cattermole and that gave Sunderland a boost.
The Black Cats started the second half with more attacking intent and they managed to break the deadlock. However, their goal came on a counter attack after John Arne Riise's shot bounced back off the crossbar. Adam Johnson flew down the left flank on the breakaway before setting up Fletcher with a precise pass and the striker didn't miss the chance. Fulham sent in Petric for injured Bryan Ruiz and Sunderland created another chance as Johnson's shot was parried by goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer. Fulham pulled back though as substitute Petric found the back of the net after receiving a good assist from Damien Duff but the Croatian striker injured himself and the home side was down to 9 men for a few moments.
Sunderland seized the opportunity as Cuellar headed home on a corner kick and then, just five minutes later, Sessegnon sealed the three points on a counter attack. The win affected Sunderland's relegation odds, Bet365 now have them at 6/1 to get relegated this season, while Fulham are priced at 40/1.
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