Crystal Palace vs. Sunderland: Date, Time, Live Stream, TV Info and Preview

Who: Crystal Palace vs. Sunderland

When: Saturday 31 August 2013, 5.30 p.m. (UK)

Where: Selhurst Park

Watch: NBC Sports Network (U.S.); Sky Sports 1 (UK)

Streaming: NBC Sports Live Extra (U.S.); Sky Go

This Saturday's evening Premier League fixture sees newly promoted Crystal Palace host Sunderland.

The game is a contest between two clubs that are predicted to struggle at the foot of the table this season.

Palace and Sunderland have so far combined for one point and are unified in their lack of creativity going forward.

The former has lost against both Tottenham Hotspur and Stoke City to begin their campaign, the latter having lost to Fulham and drawn Southampton.

Both managers are fiery characters. Eagles boss Ian Holloway is one of the most eccentric men in football, not far behind Black Cats manager Paolo Di Canio, who is certifiable.

The match is an early six-pointer, the loser in danger of being left behind early in the season.

Players to Watch

Marouane Chamakh

The new Crystal Palace signing ended a two-year goal drought in the Premier League when he netted at the weekend.

His goal may not have won his side any points against Stoke City, but it is a step in the right direction for the former Arsenal man.

The striker's biggest asset is his aerial ability in the opposition penalty area.

Emanuele Giaccherini

Italian winger Emanuele Giaccherini was Paolo Di Canio's standout recruit over the summer.

The former Juventus man has won 15 caps for the national team as well as claiming two Serie A titles.

The 5'5" speedster scored for the Black Cats at the weekend, his manager calling him a "midget" after the game according to The Express.

Prediction

This one has all the makings of a dogged midfield battle.

Sunderland will enter the game slight favourites, but that is only because the club has the more respected names in its dressing room.

Holloway will have his Palace boys ready for Saturday, but I'm going for a turgid 1-1 result.

Who do you think will win this Saturday?

Follow @MaxBentleyTowle