Sunderland need to keep a grip on reality
I'M hoping tonight's clash with Chelsea won't be a reality check for the Black Cats and their fans.
Far too many times in the past we have been on a high as Sunderland supporters, and we've been brought back to earth with a bump.
So let's hope we haven't got too carried away after just one game.
I'm all for being positive, but it seems some of my fellow Sunderland fans have been a little exuberant with their predictions.
Whether it's just early season optimism or that the effect of the celebratory drinks after Saturday's win have yet to wear off, I don't know.
But it appears some of the red and white faithful are predicting we can turn over Chelsea at the Stadium of Light.
Now nothing is impossible, but that seems a big ask.
I don't want to sound all doom and gloom, but let's take a reality check here.
I accept that the Blues didn't exactly put Hull City to the sword at the weekend, but that doesn't mean they won't be firing on all cylinders this evening.
Chelsea are genuine title contenders this season, and therefore we know we will be up against it tonight.
Still, having said all of that, and having sounded a note of caution about great expectations, I hope we can give a good account of ourselves.
This is the first chance for the home support to see their new-look side in competitive action.
And with that in mind, a positive approach and good display could really create a buzz around the place.
Supporters are hoping for a bright future under Steve Bruce, and if we can get the campaign of to a good start, the place could really take off.
Like I've pointed out, that is far easier said than done.
But for Sunderland fans, hope springs eternal (I think it's part of the job description), and even a draw against the Blues should be seen as an excellent result.
Should they be in top form then we might be in for a long evening.
However, the extra bite that we now have in midfield may stand us in good stead – as long as both the new boys can stay on the field for the full 90 minutes.
The bad news ahead of tonight's game is the loss of both Kieran Richardson and Steed Malbranque.
Both players seemed to have start the season with their tails up, and their creativity and energy in the middle of the park will be a miss.
I think privately Bruce would admit the strength in depth of his squad isn't where he would like it to be, but it's up to whoever comes in to take their chance.
Here's hoping that they do exactly that this evening. Keep the faith.
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Weather for South Shields
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 9 C to 20 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 8 C to 19 C
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