Sunderland Mimic Iconic Magpies Group Snapshot Following Pivotal Derby Win.
A different manager and a vastly altered lineup – but those involved at Sunderland had a long memory.
Nearly two years ago, after a dominant Newcastle performance at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the visitors commemorated the moment with a group photo on the pitch.
This time, the roles were turned on their head.
Nick Woltemade's unfortunate deflection proved decisive to give Sunderland a memorable win over their rivals in the inaugural Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to mimic Newcastle's celebratory snapshot at full-time.
“Always unpredictable, creative, adaptive,” remarked Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when pressed about who suggested the idea.
Defender Dan Ballard, who conceded an own goal in that 2024 FA Cup tie, was the lone Sunderland player to start in both games.
He disclosed how he was determined to make amends for the loss, stating: “It's indescribable. It was heartbreaking for the players and for the fans. We felt we had failed them, so we're delighted with this win.”
“It served as motivation. We came in with improved ability in this team, true characters, we stuck in there, fought really hard and I thought we earned the win.”
‘Rivalry games demand victory, regardless of the performance’
Sitting in seventh Sunderland are experiencing a excellent return to the top flight post promotion via the play-offs last season.
The Black Cats have 26 points on the board in 16 games, their most at this stage of a Premier League campaign since 2000-01.
They are still unbeaten in the league at the Stadium of Light, which was filled with an feverish atmosphere for most of Sunday afternoon.
“These games are all about the victory, by hook or by crook,” said captain Granit Xhaka. “This team merits greater recognition – where we are in the league is amazing and we're working really hard.”
Sunderland are also without a loss 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 under pressure to deliver of our fans,” he stated. “This win is well deserved, we were mature and the lads were incredible.”
“It's positive for the region, the club, the fans. We knew before it was a unique game, but we have to refocus immediately as we have another tough challenge in Brighton in one week.”
