The English Premier League table has assumed a predictable shape already, with Manchester City perhaps having most cause to feel satisfied after emerging unscathed from two tough games. Now, having taken four points out of six against Tottenham and Liverpool, tomorrow's visit to Sunderland will reveal more about their ability to keep pace with the established elite teams.
Negative on the road and positive at home, Roberto Mancini's game plan has worked so far, and the 3-0 home win over Liverpool was a clear signal of intent. The opening goalless draw at White Hart Lane was less flashy, but perhaps just as significant given that Tottenham had beaten City home and away last season.
With their opening two results, City are already three points better off than they were from the equivalent fixtures last season, and the next task is to improve their return from matches against the rump of the division. Last season, City gave up 10 points to Chelsea in games against teams outside the top eight, and nine to Manchester United, and it is vital they close that gap if they are to be contenders.
Tomorrow's match would be a good place to start because, while City drew at Sunderland last season, Chelsea and United both won there. Sunderland's only other home defeat was against Aston Villa, who were an excellent away side under Martin O'Neill.
A City victory would be another sign of improvement, but it looks too early to be putting great faith in City at odds-on. Arsenal, Tottenham and Liverpool were all beaten at the Stadium of Light last season, and it would be no great surprise if Sunderland dealt an early blow to City's title hopes. On the handicap at least, Sunderland look decent value.
Arsenal are the other title hopefuls with a tricky match, although they could go top briefly if they win tonight's early kick-off at Blackburn. That won't be easy because, like Sunderland, Blackburn lost only three out of 19 at home last season. Arsenal were beaten 2-1 at Ewood Park in May, and both Chelsea and Manchester United were held to draws there last season, so once again it is a risk to back the Gunners at odds-on. Arsenal on top form are capable of blowing away most teams, but Rovers boss Sam Allardyce has enjoyed notable success at stifling Arsene Wenger's teams and Blackburn could be worth backing on the handicap.