The Black Cats Stage Famous Newcastle Group Snapshot Following Pivotal Local Rivalry Triumph.
New leadership and an almost completely different team – but someone at Sunderland had a long memory.
Nearly two years ago, after Newcastle's thumping 3-0 win at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the Geordies commemorated the moment with a team picture on the pitch.
On this occasion, the roles were reversed.
Nick Woltemade's mistake proved enough to give Sunderland a memorable win over their rivals in the first Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to mimic Newcastle's post-match snapshot at full-time.
“Consistently original, imaginative, versatile,” remarked Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when questioned about who came up with the gesture.
Defender Dan Ballard, who scored an own goal in that 2024 FA Cup tie, was the sole Sunderland player to be in the starting XI in both games.
He revealed how he was eager to make amends for the loss, stating: “You cannot describe [the feeling]. It was heartbreaking for the players and for the fans. We felt we had let them down, so we're delighted with this win.”
“It prepared us more for today. We came in with more quality in this team, true characters, we stuck in there, fought really hard and I thought we earned the win.”
‘Local clashes are must-wins, by any means necessary’
Seventh-placed Sunderland are enjoying a excellent return to the top flight following promotion via the play-offs last season.
The Black Cats have 26 points in 16 games, their highest total at this stage of a Premier League campaign since 2000-01.
They are undefeated in the league at the Stadium of Light, which was filled with an incredible atmosphere for most of Sunday afternoon.
“Derbies, you have to win, it does not matter how,” said captain Granit Xhaka. “This team is worthy of more respect – where we are in the league is incredible and we're working really hard.”
Sunderland are also unbeaten in their last 10 league games against Newcastle, their best-ever streak without defeat against the Magpies.
Newcastle's last league win over Sunderland was back in August 2011.
Manager Regis le Bris said he was “delighted and satisfied” with the performance.
“It was a derby and we were carrying the hopes of our fans,” he continued. “This win is rightfully earned, we were composed and the lads were incredible.”
“It's positive for the local community, the club, the fans. We knew before it was a special game, but we have to turn the page as we have another tough challenge in Brighton in one week.”
