Fresh from his equalising goal against Everton last week Ilan was on the money again in the second half prodding in a knock-down from strike partner Carlton Cole to score the only goal of the game.
Despite Ilan taking all of the plaudits it was the performance of Mark Noble, stepping in for Scott Parker, which will have pleased many. A peripheral figure at times, this season and last, Noble was back to his energetic best against a strong Sunderland midfield.
Speaking in his post match press conference Gianfranco Zola took time to praise his goal scorer and the rest of the side. “"I am pleased because the players gave everything and they got three points that they deserved,” said Zola. “I am absolutely delighted for that and for the boys. I know what they have been through all of this time.”
On match winner Ilan, Zola noted his clever work with Carlton Cole, “The goal he scored today was unbelievable. I am delighted. He is becoming very effective for us and is making a big difference. I am pleased for him and for us. He is a payer who has got certain qualities. He can do the job that David Di Michele did for us last year.
"He is very similar to him. Maybe he is more effective scoring goals than Di Michele was. He is doing very well. I don't think we have seen the best of him because he is still adapting to this football. He can do even better.
"Also the understanding with Carlton Cole was very good. The goal came from a combination from the two which was something that they have been trying to do all the game."