WATSON FIRES BLACK CATS TO PROMISED LAND

SUNDERLAND will play in the Premier League next season after substitute Tommy Watson scored in the fifth minute of added time to seal a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over Sheffield United in the Championship play-off final at Wembley.

- 

Watson had only been on the pitch since the 73rd minute when he intercepted a pass and was given room just outside the box to advance on goal and send a beautifully-placed finish into the bottom corner to secure the Black Cats a return to the top flight for the first time since 2017.

The Blades had looked set to seal themselves an immediate promotion following their relegation last season, Tyreece Campbell's goal midway through the first half handing Chris Wilder's side a lead they held until the final 15 minutes.

Eliezer Mayenda then scored with a stunning drive to level for Regis Le Bris’ side before Watson stole the ball from Kieffer Moore and produced a moment that will live long in Wear-side folklore.

It capped a stunning culmination to a first season in charge for Le Bris. The French coach took over last summer after a tumultuous campaign that saw three different managers lead the team, but in only his second senior job in management - after joining from Lorient - he completed Sunderland's long march back from the depths of League One.