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English Premier League 2014-15
SportFootball

Defoe wonder goal can save us from the drop, says Sunderland boss

Stunning volley in derby could be just the boost we need, reckons coach Dick Advocaat

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Dick Advocaat congratulates Jermain Defoe. Photo: AP

Dick Advocaat thinks Jermain Defoe’s wonder-strike in the Wear-Tyne derby could give Sunderland the perfect boost to keep Premier League football at the Stadium of Light next season.

Head coach Advocaat claimed his first win since taking over until the end of the season from Gus Poyet courtesy of Defoe’s stunning 22-yard volley in the final minute of the first half against Newcastle United.

The 32-year-old striker’s brilliant winner lifted the Black Cats up to 15th and three points clear of the relegation zone with seven matches remaining.

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Defoe watched striking partner Steven Fletcher’s flick on drop invitingly for him before he displayed astonishing technique to power a dipping volley into Newcastle goalkeeper Tim Krul’s top left corner.

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Advocaat, whose side face Crystal Palace this Saturday at the Stadium of Light, said: “Jermain gets paid for scoring goals. It’s just a first win for me. We had to win today, there was a lot of pressure on the team.

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