Sunderland's win at Bristol City has transformed what could have been an 'average to poor' start into a 'really good' beginning to life back in the Championship, according to Alex Neil. The Black Cats are unbeaten in both their games since returning to the second tier, following last weekend's home draw against Coventry City with a victory against the Robins at Ashton Gate yesterday.
Two goals from on-loan Everton striker Ellis Simms on his debut and a first Championship goal for Ross Stewart gave Sunderland a 3-2 win against City, leaving them second in the table - although at this early stage of proceedings, no-one will be getting carried away by that lofty league position. More important was the fact that Sunderland have notched their first win early, and have done so on the road, proving that they can compete in this division.
And for boss Neil, it means that his side has got off to an impressive start. "What I said to the players before the game was that this is one of those games where, if you don't win it, people will look and say this is probably an average to poor start," he said.
READ MORE: Alex Neil hails Sunderland's 'unbelievable' front two after Bristol City win amid transfer update
"If you do win it, people look at it as a really good start. That's the state of the season we are in. We've got four points on the board, our first win on the board, and we scored three goals yesterday. The one thing I am disappointed by is how cheaply we conceded a couple of goals, but that's probably me being greedy."
Almost 2,500 Sunderland fans made the nine-hour return journey from Wearside to Ashton Gate, and they celebrated in the sunshine at full-time. Neil said: "Our support is top, it always is.
"Anywhere we go, the fans will follow us and they will back us. They were in great voice, so it was really pleasing to get the win for them. If they see a lack of effort or organisation at points, they will probably get frustrated with me in that sense. At times we were a bit ragged. Bristol's shape is hard to play against, as is ours, but certainly in the second half I thought we were excellent."
READ NEXT:
- Bristol City 2-3 Sunderland player ratings as Ellis Simms makes a memorable debut
- Bristol City 2-3 Sunderland match report as debutant Ellis Simms scores twice in vital win
- Sunderland's Jay Matete loan stance confirmed by Alex Neil
- Alex Neil on the lesson Sunderland learned on day one of the Championship season
- Sunderland boss Alex Neil gives fitness update on Niall Huggins and Leon Dajaku
