The inside track on Northampton Town - and the key weaknesses Sunderland will look to exploit

The Black Cats return to action this weekend for the first time since December 15 as they head to the Sixfields Stadium to take on a Northampton side looking to lift themselves away from relegation danger.

And with the two sides not having met since the days of Roy Keane on Wearside, we asked James Heneghan of the Northampton Chronicle for the inside track on the Cobblers:

How have Northampton's performances been so far this season?

JH: “Mixed. Keith Curle's men started the season relatively well after promotion in the summer but the harsh reality of League One soon kicked in with a tough run of results against some of the big-hitters in the division.

"They stemmed the tide briefly but a recent four-game losing streak, including two 4-0 defeats, dropped them into the relegation zone and cranked up the pressure on manager Keith Curle.

"However, a timely and excellent win over Gillingham in midweek has lifted spirits and confidence.”

What kind of game plan do you expect them to implement against Sunderland?

JH: “Northampton have tended to defend and sit deep - too deep at times - against the stronger sides this season.

"They have one of the lowest possession counts in the division so I expect Sunderland to dominate the ball this weekend, with the Cobblers looking to make them work hard for chances.

"Curle's team are not the most free-scoring - only one team has scored fewer goals this season - but they can be a threat at set-pieces.”

Are there any weaknesses in the squad that Sunderland could take advantage of?

JH: “Northampton have had their issues defensively and can crumble if they concede early. Lincoln recently came to Sixfields and scored inside two minutes before cruising to a 4-0 victory.

"Getting the first goal will be crucial as Northampton very rarely turn things around when they go behind - only once this season have they not lost after falling 1-0 down and that was on the opening day.

"With that in mind, Curle will try to keep it tight for as long as possible and frustrate Sunderland.”

Who are the players Sunderland will have to keep a close eye on during Saturday's game?

JH: “As previously mentioned, one of Northampton's biggest threats comes from set-pieces. Both Nicky Adams and Alan Sheehan have good delivery and the team has the physical presence to cause problems.

"Curle has struggled to find a settled strike partnership this season but Benny Ashley-Seal and Danny Rose impressed on Tuesday night. They are energetic and work hard and will look to put Sunderland's defence under pressure if they start at the weekend.

"Sam Hoskins is also a threat with his direct running and Ryan Watson will look to burst forward from midfield.”

What do you think the score will be?

JH: “I try to be optimistic but I'm struggling on this one! Northampton have a terrible record against the bigger teams this season and I fear it could be another tough afternoon. I'll go for 2-1 Sunderland.”

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