LONDON, Aug 11: New signing Michael Chopra scored a dramatic winner in the fourth minute of stoppage-time as promoted Sunderland beat Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 in Saturday's opening match of the Premier League season.

Chopra, who joined Roy Keane's side in July from Cardiff City, came off the substitutes' bench to rifle home a low shot from inside the penalty area at the Stadium of Light.

His side had looked destined to settle for a point after creating few chances but working hard to keep a strong Spurs line-up in check. Spurs manager Martin Jol threw on new 16.5 million pounds forward Darren Bent after the break in a vain attempt to secure victory.

Chopra, the second division's second-highest scorer last season, collected a high cross from Ross Wallace and had time to tee up his shot before finding the bottom right-hand corner.

Premier League action was continuing later on Saturday, with Liverpool at Aston Villa among the fixtures, while champions Manchester United, FA Cup holders Chelsea and Arsenal all play on Sunday.—Reuters