Sam Allardyce had every reason to celebrate tonight after a season-long struggle culminated in Sunderland preserving their Premier League status with victory over Everton.
There were joyous scenes after tonight's game as Big Sam as he is affectionately known applauded fans for their support and he goes into the final round of games with safety secured.
Patrick van Aanholt handed Sunderland the lead in the first half on 38 minutes, his freekick squeezed through a body of players and beat Joel Robles down the centre of his goal.
Before the the half, Lamine Kone doubled Sunderland's lead. His close range half volley sent the stadium into delirium as fans began to dream of another season in the Premier League.
Kone, who had never scored for Sunderland before tonight, struck again to wrap up all three points on 55 minutes and ensure that fierce rivals Newcastle would play in the Championship next season.
Everton, it must be said, weren't at the races on the night and racked up another defeat, their fourth in their last five games in all competitions.
There will surely be massive pressure on Roberto Martinex after tonight. #EFC only have one win in their last nine games in all competitions
— Newstalk Sport (@NewstalkSport) May 11, 2016
Elsewhere tonight, Norwich came from a goal down to beat Watford beat 4-2 at Carrow Road but the result wasn't enough to grant them safety. The last time Norwich went down they bounced straight back up, something Alex Neil will take solace in should he remain in the job next season.
Also this evening, a last minute Christian Benteke goal salvaged a 1-1 for Liverpool at home to Chelsea.
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