On this day in 2022, Sunderland beat Rotherham United 3-0 at the Stadium of Light. It was the start of the Tony Mowbray era on Wearside. Here's Sobs' match report from that day: Hot on the heels of the official departure of the Snake, first choice replacement Tony Mowbray was installed as our new head coach. The Lads responded by basically carrying on where they left off on Saturday in terms of application, and after a slightly frustrating first half, simply blew the Millers to dust and their...

On this day in 1979, Ken Knighton was appointed as Sunderland Manager. Knighton had played for six English clubs in his playing career, Wolves, Oldham, Preston, Blackburn, Hull and Sheffield Wednesday, making over 350 appearances before arriving at Roker Park as a coach in 1976. In less than three years, he was made manager, replacing ex Sunderland player Billy Elliot as boss. After being the man who ran on to the pitch with a sponge and water, Ken was soon donning the manager’s overcoat on...

On this day in 1915, Sunderland’s first ever manager, Tom Watson, passed away. Born in Newcastle in 1859, his football journey began as a player with local sides Woodbine, Rosewood, and Heaton before he formed the Rosehill club in 1881, and after that his career off the field really began. He was secretary of both Newcastle East End and West End – basically, their overall manager, and for the latter he obtained the lease of Sid James Park, then known as St James’ Park. However, he resigned...