Sunderland sent both Newcastle United and Norwich City down to the Championship while preserving their own top-flight status with a crushing 3-0 victory over Everton at the Stadium of Light.
The hosts came into Wednesday’s meeting knowing three points would be enough to secure safety and send Newcastle down, along with Norwich, who were hosting Watford.
This victory leaves the Black Cats four points clear of both clubs with just one round of fixtures remaining, with Norwich’s 4-2 win over Watford proving in vain for Alex Neil’s men.
Buoyed by Saturday’s battling 3-2 victory over Chelsea and facing a woefully out-of-form Everton side, Sunderland sealed the points with three goals in 17 minutes either side of half-time.
Patrick Van Aanholt made the breakthrough with a free-kick in the 38th minute that raised question marks over Joel Robles’ positioning, before Kone netted a double with two simple close-range finishes.
It was another performance to forget for Everton in what has proved to be a dismal end to the league season, although there was one positive note with Gareth Barry making a Premier League record 572nd start.
But the headlines belonged to Sunderland, who can travel to Watford on Sunday safe in the knowledge that another season of top-flight football is assured and will particularly relish playing such a pivotal part in Newcastle slumping down to the Championship.
~Goal.com