Norwich City ran riot at the Stadium of Light this afternoon, defeating a poor Sunderland side by three goals to one.
The game opened in scrappy fashion, with a player from each side going into the referee's notebook within the first 10 minutes, and clear-cut chances few and far between at both ends.
© Getty Images
The Black Cats carved out the first goalscoring opportunity in the ninth minute when Sebastian Larsson latched on to a loose ball and struck it first time, his effort deflecting behind for a corner kick.
Norwich came to life in the 25th minute as Jonny Howson draw a reaction save from Costel Pantilimon, forcing the Romanian to tip the ball behind for a corner with a stinging effort from the edge of the box.
The Canaries took the lead from the resulting corner, the ball finding its way to Robbie Brady, whose shot was parried by Pantilimon, allowing Russell Martin to drive home the rebound and make it 1-0.
© Getty Images
Things quickly got worse for Sunderland as Steven Whittaker exchanged passes with Nathan Redmond in the danger zone before beating Pantilimon with a drive at his near post to double Norwich's lead.
Norwich's second goal was met with a chorus of boos from the Sunderland fans, some of whom left the stadium before half time.
Steven Fletcher almost headed a goal back for the hosts moments before the first half came to a close, but the Scot's effort from Jeremain Lens's cross sailed harmlessly over.
© Getty Images
Sunderland went back on the attack as soon as the second half was underway, Lens finding a way through on the right and testing John Ruddy with his left boot, but the former Everton keeper made short work of the attempt.
Norwich were out of sight just before the hour mark thanks to some dismal defending from the Black Cats, who were caught ball-watching when a throw-in sailed towards the box, allowing Redmond to prod in from close range.
Duncan Watmore volleyed in a late consolation for Sunderland, but that did not stop the home crowd from letting their frustration be heard upon the final whistle as Dick Advocaat's side were booed off the park by the fans who remained.
Mark Langshaw
