I know why I have supported Sunderland or the ‘Black Cats” since I was 10. The team had come third 2 years in a row and I felt sorry for them! I have never been north of Scarborough and have never visited the city. But it was sealed that day. I saw them a couple of times at WHU, including an 8-1 defeat – but that did not deter me. A memorable FA Cup triumph against the mighty Leeds was celebrated at my mates house (Pete C) in Bethnal Green I think! Otherwise it has been a turgid time with with brief glimpses of hope with Niall Quinn and Phillips. Then down with relagtions – but could I change allegiance – of course not! So yesterdays result of a 2-2 draw with Arsenal was momentous. Not a win, but the belief that the ‘Black Cats’ are back to stay; they were tipped for relegation by just about every pundit. Their manager wasappointed despite his last club being relegated from the 1st division in France. Their owner is still only 27 having inherited his fathers passion for football (former owner of Monaco FC). Not Arabian riches – but honest!
So Sunderland have a new footbridge and a team to believe in – hopefully their fans will refrain from voting for Reform. The fans are amazing with their rendition of “Can’t help falling in love” is a tear jerker!. Even in the dark days of lower divisions their support has been amazing with 30000+ crowds at all times. With a team that contains no Englishmen I hope the fans relise the benefits of multiculturalism and kick racism out.