Sunderland are still seeking their first victory of the season after a 1-0 defeat at home to Tottenham on Sunday.

Both sides went into the fixture winless after four games and it was the Black Cats who probably enjoyed the better of the early exchanges.

Jermain Defoe was unlucky not to break the deadlock after he was put through on goal thanks to an outstanding pass from Jeremain Lens. Defoe’s effort beat Spurs stopper Hugo Lloris but came back off the post as neither side managed to break the deadlock before the break.

The visitors stepped up a gear in the second half as Spurs began to force the issue but Sunderland held out well, with Younes Kaboul in particular starring in defence as he produced some crucial blocks, including one from Nacer Chadli that seemed destined for the back of the net.

An introduction of Andros Townsend for debutant Son Heung-Min proved the difference for the visitors as he caused havoc down the right flank.

The extra pressure eventually told as Ryan Mason was put through on goal before he chipped the ball over the legs of Costel Pantilimon to score the only goal of the game.

Sunderland had a great chance to salvage a point late on as Kaboul managed to pick out substitute Jack Rodwell but his shot cannoned back off the crossbar.

The hosts remain at the foot of the table following the defeat, level on points with both Stoke and Newcastle, who travel to West Ham on Monday.

Sunderland travel to Bournemouth in the next round of fixtures and they are 5.50 to take all three points. A win for the Cherries is 1.62 and a draw can be backed at 3.75.