Mason Burstow's first goal for Sunderland inspired a 3-1 win over Stoke to ease the pressure on under-fire boss Michael Beale on Saturday.

Sunderland fans chanted for Beale to be sacked during last week's loss to Hull.

The problems mounted for the former Rangers boss this week when midfielder Alex Pritchard "made himself unavailable to play and expressed his desire to leave with immediate effect".

But Burstow, on loan from Chelsea, lifted the gloom as he broke his Sunderland duck in his 14th appearance for the club.

Abdoullah Ba and Pierre Ekwah were also on target as Sunderland ended their run of three successive defeats in all competitions.

A Jenson Seelt own-goal was no consolation for Stoke, who remain 19th after their second consecutive loss.

The much-needed result moved Beale's team level on points with sixth-placed Coventry in the race to reach the Championship play-offs.

Brad Potts rescued a point for Preston as they held on to draw 1-1 with Millwall at The Den.

Zian Flemming gave Millwall the lead with a fifth minute header from George Honeyman's cross, but Potts equalised with a clinical finish in the 33rd minute.

Millwall dominated the second half but they remain without a win since New Year's Day after failing to convert several clear-cut opportunities.

The result leaves Preston in 12th place, while the Lions are in 17th after ending their three-game losing streak.