Sunderland made it three wins on the bounce as they secured a 1-0 victory over Oxford United.

It may not have been the prettiest display but that is unlikely to be a big worry for Phil Parkinson as he continues their challenge for promotion.

The Black Cats secured the victory as a result of a John Mousinho own goal after just three minutes, meaning that the Wearsiders were tasked with seeing out the game against a tricky opponent.

However Sunderland managed to see out the game and push themselves to within three points of the automatic promotion spots.

But what did we learn about Phil Parkinson's side? Let's take a look.

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Winning ugly is important

It certainly wasn't pretty but at this stage of the season it hardly matters.

Sunderland only had 40% of the possession and just one shot on target, but that was enough to see them over the line to record another crucial three points.

The Black Cats will undoubtedly put in much better displays than that, but if they're to secure promotion it's about getting results even when things aren't going your way, meaning that victory over Oxford United was a big plus.

An impressive goalkeeping record

He struggled to hold down a regular place at the start of the season, but that's certainly not the case for Jon McLaughlin at present.

The goalkeeper is one of the first names on the teamsheet for Sunderland and that's down to his more than impressive record in the Black Cats' net.

McLaughlin has kept seven clean sheets in his last eight games, and with just two goals conceded in that time he has the best record of any stopper in the top four divisions.

Not bad going, really.

Can you name these ex-Sunderland players? Let's find out!

 

The promotion chase continues 

There's a really positive feeling around Sunderland at the moment.

Phil Parkinson has got his team performing in a fashion that is capable of putting in impressive performances but also grinding out results when they need to.

At this stage of the season it's all about momentum and with the way that Sunderland are going it would take a brave man to bet against them finishing off the job.