Ep 1. Blinded By The Light

Sunderland 'Til I Die is a British television show that follows the journey of Sunderland Association Football Club, one of the most historic football clubs in England, during the 2017-18 season. The first episode of the show titled "Blinded By The Light," sets the tone for the entire season by displaying the passion and love that Sunderland fans have for their club.

The episode starts by introducing the viewers to the passionate fans of Sunderland, who live and breathe football. The city is built around the football club, with the Stadium of Light being the center of attention. The episode also showcases the economic and social plight that the city of Sunderland faces.

The story then shifts to the Stadium of Light, where the club is playing their first home game of the season against Derby County. The game is a must-win for the club as they have just been relegated from the Premier League. The fans are in full voice, and the atmosphere is electric. The team struggles to create chances, and things go from bad to worse when Derby scores a goal in the second half.

The team tries to fight back and almost scores an equalizer, but the Derby goalkeeper makes a brilliant save. As the final whistle blows, Sunderland loses their first home game of the season, and the fans are heartbroken. One particular fan is shown crying, and that sets the tone for the show, portraying the raw emotion that the fans feel for their club.

The episode then moves onto the boardroom, where owner Ellis Short discusses the financial situation of the club. Sunderland is in debt, and Short has been trying to sell the club for some time. He admits that it has been a difficult financial year for the club, and he is unsure if the club can compete financially in the Championship.

The episode then shows the manager of Sunderland, Simon Grayson, speaking to the press after the game. Grayson is clearly dejected, but he takes the blame for the defeat and promises that the team will fight back. He admits that he needs new players and that the club is lacking funds for transfers.

The show then shifts focus to the fans again, this time showing how they cope with the loss. The fans are shown drinking and reminiscing about the past glory days of Sunderland. They discuss how they used to be one of the most successful clubs in England and reminisce about the time when they won the FA Cup.

The episode ends with a cliffhanger, with the news breaking that a young player from the Sunderland academy has been sold to Everton for a substantial fee. Fans are confused as to why Sunderland would sell one of their talented youngsters, and the mystery leaves the viewers wanting more.

Overall, the first episode of Sunderland 'Til I Die sets the tone for the season, portraying the passion and love that Sunderland fans have for their club, despite the club's struggles and financial woes. The episode also gives a behind-the-scenes look at the club, showing the financial situation and the pressure on the manager to perform. The episode sets up the remainder of the season, highlighting the struggles and successes of Sunderland.