Sunderland To Reimburse Fans Who Witnessed 8-0 Defeat

It has been tough start for Sunderland this season. But is it possible to hit rock bottom only 8 games into the season? We’re going to say no, since Sunderland is still out of the relegation zone (barley); however, an 8-0 loss will make supporters feel like a bottom three finish is a certainty. It was only the sixth time in Premier League history that a side lost by eight goals.   

But hey, at least Sunderland goalkeeper Vito Mannone wants to make things right with the Black Cats supporters. The Italian born Mannone said he would, “personally talk to the team to see if it is possible to pay (for the fans’) tickets and their trip.” Heck yeah. That’s what we call accountability.

Mannone went on to say, “We should do it because we didn’t put our foot in, we didn’t work hard. We started the game well, but after we conceded we threw in the towel – and I include myself.”

About 2,600 Sunderland fans will be reimbursed for their match tickets, but not their travel fees. Supporters will receive £24 per ticket which should amount to an estimated £60,000. Fans who do not wish to claim their refund will have their reimbursement donated to a Sunderland-based hospital.

We have to say, it’s pretty cool to see a team taking responsibility for a poor performance and understanding that fans shelled out money to watch a dreadful performance. Unfortunately, getting £24 for a 630 mile trip is pretty weak. But it’s the thought that counts, right? So bravo Sunderland. This could be used as a motivational tool for the squad. Luckily for you, the Gunners are coming to the Stadium of Light this weekend and we wouldn’t put it past you to get a point out of the affair to rescue your pride. 

Fans will have until November 5th to claim their tickets. 

Worst Losses In EPL (Courtesy of BBC Sport)

• Manchester United 9-0 Ipswich, March 1995
• Newcastle United 8-0 Sheffield Wednesday, September 1999
• Tottenham Hotspur 9-1 Wigan Athletic, November 2009
• Chelsea 8-0 Wigan Athletic, May 2010
• Chelsea 8-0 Aston Villa, December 2012
• Southampton 8-0 Sunderland, October 2014