Bitesize Prediction: Sunderland vs Middlesbrough

Competition: Championship

Market: Both teams to score

Odds: 8/11 @ 888sport

In what could prove to be an action-packed affair from the Stadium of Light on Sunday lunchtime, Sunderland will host local rivals Middlesbrough.

Starting with the hosts, watching their eye-catching flurry come to an abrupt end last weekend, Sunderland will be desperate to prove that was nothing more than a minor blip. Eventually getting hit with a shock 3-1 loss at home against Swansea, Tony Mowbray’s side will know that they should face another tough test here. However, still continuing to gain a string of praise since making their Championship return this season, the former Blackburn boss is dreaming of what would be a stunning play-off finish. Suffering just a single defeat from any of their last six appearances across all formats, the Black Cats have gained a reputation for their lively outcomes. In fact, it is worth highlighting that Sunderland have seen their last seven straight contests finish with both teams finding the net.

As for the visitors, while Middlesbrough might have been disappointed after watching their FA Cup adventure come to an end earlier in the month, the Reds are enjoying a remarkable start to life under Michael Carrick. Skyrocketing their way up the Championship table and now tipped as a leading contender to claim a play-off spot this season, the ex-Manchester United coach will be desperate for his side to lay down another marker here. Opening 2023 with a real statement as they cruised their way to a 3-1 romp away at Birmingham, Carrick’s side have won each of their last four second-tier showdowns by an aggregate score of 10-3. Likewise, on what has been a stellar purple patch away from the Riverside, Boro have mustered 15 points from their last six Championship matchups on the road.

Bet: Both teams to score at Sunderland vs Middlesbrough 8/11 for Sunday’s Championship battle @ 888sport