Sunderland were beaten 5-0 by Nottingham Forest at the Stadium of Light, a result that marked their heaviest home defeat of the season. Forest took control early and led 4-0 at the break, putting the game beyond reach.
Despite the scoreline, a large number of supporters remained in the ground until the final whistle, with sections of the crowd continuing to back the team throughout the second half. There were also efforts from parts of the stadium to rally the players following a difficult opening period.
The defeat leaves Sunderland with ground to make up heading into the final weeks of the campaign, but the turnout and response in the stands underlined the level of support still behind the side. Here are 100 photos of Sunderland fans during the game:
5. Sunderland fans
Sunderland fans in action during the 5-0 loss to Nottingham Forest at the Stadium of Light. Photo by Chris Fryatt. | Sunderland fans in action during the 5-0 loss to Nottingham Forest at the Stadium of Light. Photo by Chris Fryatt.
6. Sunderland fans
Sunderland fans in action during the 5-0 loss to Nottingham Forest at the Stadium of Light. Photo by Chris Fryatt. | Sunderland fans in action during the 5-0 loss to Nottingham Forest at the Stadium of Light. Photo by Chris Fryatt.
7. Sunderland fans
Sunderland fans in action during the 5-0 loss to Nottingham Forest at the Stadium of Light. Photo by Chris Fryatt. | Sunderland fans in action during the 5-0 loss to Nottingham Forest at the Stadium of Light. Photo by Chris Fryatt.
8. Sunderland fans
Sunderland fans in action during the 5-0 loss to Nottingham Forest at the Stadium of Light. Photo by Chris Fryatt. | Sunderland fans in action during the 5-0 loss to Nottingham Forest at the Stadium of Light. Photo by Chris Fryatt.