Jack Ross is relishing tonight’s top-of-the-table clash with Peterborough United, as he takes charge of his first league fixture under the Wearside lights.
Just four points and two places separate the sides heading into the fixture, with the Lads knowing a win would take them to within a point of the Posh, and the automatic promotion places.
Steve Evans’ side are the top scorers in the division and they’ve lost just one game this campaign – falling to league-leaders Portsmouth – with the Black Cats’ unbeaten Stadium of Light record on the line.
But despite the billing of the game, Ross can’t wait to see his players in action.
“It’s still relatively early in the season, but as the season started to develop and this one was on the horizon, we understood that it would be a big game for both teams.
“Their form has been terrific, and they’ve stayed in those top two places by in large all season, but it’s a game we’re looking forward to.”
He continued: “Certainly, they have goals and a threat throughout their team and when you have that it gives you a great opportunity to stay there [at the top].
“I’m looking forward to seeing my players respond against a team that has had a great season so far.
“I think you learn about your players all the time and we’re not shying away from where we want to be this season, but we understand that to be there we have to beat teams like Peterborough.
“You don’t want to be detached from the teams that are in the top two places, and tomorrow’s an opportunity for us to obviously close that gap.
“It’s my first game – first proper game, if you like – under the lights at the Stadium of Light, and I’m looking forward to it.”