Sunderland manager Howard Wilkinson refused to accept the inevitablity of relegation, despite seeing his side slump to their eighth home defeat.

Two own goals from Michael Proctor helped Charlton to a comfortable 3-1 win at the Stadium of Light and sent the Black Cats to the bottom of the Premiership for the first time this season.

We knew the first goal would be all-important Charlton manager Alan Curbishley

But Wilkinson said Sunderland's improved second-half performance, backed by sustained cheering from the home contingent, was at least a sign that they had banished their fears of playing at home.

"I genuinely think we will get out of it," Wilkinson said.

"It was a disappointing result but there were some important positives out of the match. At least we have got rid of this playing at the Stadium of Light problem."

Charlton headed in at half-time with a three-goal lead thanks to a deflected Mark Fish shot and Proctor's unfortunate double - one off his boot and one off his back.

But Wilkinson said the Sunderland fans could have a huge part to play for the rest of the season.

"For the first time since I arrived I have really started to see what people meant when they talked about the Sunderland fans," he said.

"In the second half, helped by the fans and despite the bad luck, we didn't capitulate."

Phillips' penalty gave Sunderland fans something to cheer

Kevin Phillips' penalty gave the supporters some hope but Charlton boss Alan Curbishley said the first goal had been decisive.

"We came into this game knowing the pressure Sunderland were under and we knew the first goal would be all-important," said Curbishley.

"How the match turned out was uncanny. Mark Fish will be claiming the first goal as his - at least his shot was goal-bound."

Charlton are now established in the top half of the Premiership but Curbishley chose not to look too far ahead.

"Our run has been fantastic - we have had nine wins, five draws and three defeats. If you are winning and feeling confident results seem to come your way," he said.