Sunderland Stage Famous Newcastle Squad Picture Following Pivotal Local Rivalry Win.
A different manager and a vastly altered lineup – but those involved at Sunderland remembered vividly.
Nearly two years ago, after Newcastle's thumping 3-0 win at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the Geordies celebrated with a full squad photograph on the pitch.
On this occasion, the roles were reversed.
Nick Woltemade's own goal proved sufficient to give Sunderland a memorable win over their rivals in the inaugural Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to recreate Newcastle's post-match snapshot at full-time.
“Forever inventive, resourceful, flexible,” remarked Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when questioned about who proposed the photograph.
Defender Dan Ballard, who was unfortunate to score an own goal in that 2024 FA Cup tie, was the sole Sunderland player to be in the starting XI in the two games.
He explained how he desperately wanted to avenge the loss, stating: “Words can't express it. It was heartbreaking for the players and for the fans. We felt we had failed them, so we're delighted with this win.”
“It prepared us more for today. We came in with more quality in this team, strong personalities, we persevered, fought really hard and I thought we merited the win.”
‘Derbies you have to win, it does not matter how’
Occupying seventh spot Sunderland are enjoying a superb 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 best return 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 electric atmosphere for most of Sunday afternoon.
“In local rivalry matches, the result is everything, the performance secondary,” said captain Granit Xhaka. “This team merits greater recognition – where we are in the league is remarkable and we're working really hard.”
Sunderland are also without a loss in their last 10 league games against Newcastle, their most extended period without defeat against the Magpies.
Newcastle's last league win over Sunderland was over a decade ago.
Manager Regis le Bris said he was “extremely pleased” with the performance.
“It was a derby and we were carrying the hopes of our fans,” he continued. “This win is fully merited, we were composed and the lads were superb.”
“It's good for the local community, 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.”
