STEFFEN IVERSEN almost single-handedly eased Tottenham's relegation fears last night and he pushed Sunderland a step closer to a quick return to Division One. Iversen, a £2.6 million signing from Norwegian club Rosenborg, doubled his goal tally since his arrival in December with a hat-trick that made a mockery of Sunderland's impressive home defensive record.

That Roker Park record - joint-best alongside Sheffield Wednesday prior to kick-off - disintegrated as Iversen netted twice in the first nine minutes. After setting up Allan Nielsen for a 25th-minute goal that effectively killed off Sunderland's challenge, Iversen capped a memorable performance with an instinctive effort from 30 yards in the 62nd minute.

In a game critical to two of the Premiership's out-of-form teams, the London club never looked back after lversen's opener in just 65 seconds. The Norwegian hooked the ball in after Sunderland had failed to clear a free-kick, conceded by recalled mid-fielder Alex Rae.

Sunderland tried to hit back, but half-hearted efforts came to nothing and they were stung by a second goal after nine minutes. Colin Calderwood's free-kick from deep in his own half was flicked on by Teddy Sheringham and lversen nipped in ahead of Sunderland goalkeeper Lionel Perez with another right-foot shot into the corner.

Iversen sent Nielsen clear in the 25th minute and he had plenty of time before beating the exposed Perez easily with a low shot. Sunderland's first-half frustration was capped by a booking for Ord following a foul on the lively Iversen.

Sunderland, now beaten in their last four games and with just one goal in seven, peppered Ian Walker's goal in the later stages. The introduction of substitute Michael Bridges made some difference, but with a tough run-in, things look grim for Peter Reid's men.