Sunderland begins 1998/99 season with 1-0 win over QPR

On August 8, 1998, Sunderland AFC defeated Queens Park Rangers 1-0 in their season opener at the Stadium of Light. Kevin Phillips scored the decisive penalty in the 75th minute after QPR's Ian Baraclough was sent off for handling a goal-bound shot. The match was marred by Sunderland losing midfielder Lee Clark to injury in the first half. This victory was pivotal in setting the tone for Sunderland's record-breaking season, ultimately leading to a total of 105 points. The attendance was 40,537, reflecting the optimism surrounding the team's prospects after a disappointing previous season.

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