Jermain Defoe once again proved to be the hero for Sunderland following his hat-trick in the Black Cats’ 4-2 win against Swansea City.
In a game that was billed as yet another six-pointer, Defoe’s treble helped the Black Cats close the gap between them and Swansea, which is now only one point.
Defoe opened the scoring when Adam Johnson’s shot was parried by Lukasz Fabianski straight into the path of the 33-year-old who turned it home, although he did appear to be in an offside position.
The game then exploded into life as Swansea equalised, had Kyle Naughton sent off, before Andre Ayew gave the 10-man Swans the lead at half time.
Patrick van Aanholt equalised early in the second half before Defoe pounced on the hour mark to give the Black Cats a crucial lead. However, it appeared as though the Sunderland front man had again strayed offside.
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There was no doubt about Defoe’s third goal as van Aanholt provided a lovely pass across the six yard box as the 33-year-old completed his hat-trick.
The win was crucial for Sam Allardyce’s men who have a difficult run of games over the next month including trips to White Hart Lane and Anfield, while entertaining both Manchester clubs.
Defoe’s hat-trick may prove to be the pivotal moment in Sunderland’s season which is why he claims Outside90’s Hero of the Week.
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