| Leeds and Burnley have already achieved direct promotion to the Premier League. Traditionally, the third place in England's top flight is awarded in the playoffs. Sunderland have the best chance of reaching the final having won the first leg of the semi-final against Coventry 2-1 and now aiming to seal the deal at home. Given their overall good home record, it certainly seems likely that the home side will also win the return leg. Aside from that, the visitors will have to play for a win at the Stadium of Light. Sunderland have only lost four times at the Stadium of Light. Three of these four defeats came in the last three matches in front of their own fans. Previously, the team impressed at home with great consistency and an extremely solid defense. They conceded just 18 goals in 23 home matches. A total of 50 goals were scored in home games. At the same time Coventry have been waiting for away win for over two months. Frank Lampard's team hasn't had much success on the road all season. His team won only seven of the 23 away games. This compares to seven draws and nine defeats. The goal difference is also negative. |
