Sunderland recorded a potentially crucial 1-0 victory over Ipswich Town at the Stadium Of Light.

That result sees them leapfrop the Tractorboys and move back into the play-off places.

It was the visitors who had the better of the first period as Phil Parkinson's side struggled to get a hold of the game.

However in the second period we saw the hosts really dominate.

Chances from Denver Hume, Lynden Gooch and Bailey Wright saw the hosts go close but it was Chris Maguire who got the decisive goal in the 80th minute.

But what did we learn about the Black Cats? Let's take a look.

More than just a goal

Chris Maguire's stunning strike was crucial in the context of the game, but in truth it was so much more than that.

That finish was met with pure elation from the home fans and it very much felt like an effort which could be the start of an exciting few months.

Here's hoping that the coming weeks see plenty more moments like that as the Sunderland supporters look to finish the season in style.

The impact of the home crowd

They couldn't have been much louder as Chris Maguire's effort went in, but the home support's backing was about much more than that.

The 30,000+ fans in the Stadium Of Light made for a hostile atmosphere on Saturday afternoon as they piled the pressure on both Ipswich Town and the referee.

The crowd could play a pivotal role in helping Sunderland over the line and based on that display it seems that they're very much up for what's in store.

Can you name every Sunderland player's shirt number this season? 

 

A show of unity

While matters off the pitch are uncertain at best, there's a been a real show of unity around the football club in recent weeks.

Phil Parkinson has removed the bad eggs from the group and now boasts a squad who are all very much pulling in the same direction.

That has led to picking up some good results - which in turn has eased the pressure on the Sunderland boss and got supporters onside as well.

With everyone pulling in the same direction it will certainly make a huge difference in Sunderland's hunt for promotion this term.