Sunderland’s projected finish shifts after 3-1 defeat at West Ham United | OneFootball

Sunderland have impressed on their Premier League return and still eye a top-half finish, but a 3-1 loss at relegation-threatened West Ham United sharpened focus on their run-in.

According to Sunderland Echo, updated Opta modelling now projects a 13th-place finish for the Black Cats on 49.92 points.

The match unfolded without captain Granit Xhaka, injured beforehand, and West Ham, managed by Nuno Espirito Santo, struck first when Crysencio Summerville headed in just before the quarter-hour. Jarrod Bowen doubled the lead from the spot, then Matheus Fernandes lashed in shortly before half-time.

Sunderland improved after the break and Brian Brobbey reduced the deficit on 66 minutes, making it three goals in his last five outings in all competitions. West Ham closed it out to bolster their survival hopes.

The head coach accepted his side were second best before the interval, saying the key issue was individual levels rather than selection or shape. He felt they lost too many duels, lacked composure and were punished, which can happen in this league.

Sunderland ended Saturday in 10th, while the same projections put Arsenal top on 83.84 points and West Ham 18th on 34.90.

Source: Sunderland Echo