The Black Cats Stage Famous Newcastle Squad Picture After ‘Special’ Local Rivalry Win.
A different manager and a largely changed squad – 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 rivals marked the occasion with a group photo on the pitch.
On this occasion, the script were reversed.
Nick Woltemade's unfortunate deflection proved enough to deliver Sunderland a memorable win over their rivals in the inaugural 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 pressed about who suggested the gesture.
Defender Dan Ballard, who conceded an own goal in that previous encounter, was the only Sunderland player to be in the starting XI in the two games.
He explained how he desperately wanted to rectify the loss, stating: “You cannot describe [the feeling]. It was so painful 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 greater talent in this team, real leaders, we persevered, fought really hard and I thought we merited the win.”
‘Rivalry games demand victory, regardless of the performance’
Sitting in seventh Sunderland are having a superb return to the top flight post 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 yet to lose 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 incredible and we're working really hard.”
Sunderland are also undefeated 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 back in August 2011.
Manager Regis le Bris said he was “proud and happy” with the result.
“It was a derby and we were under pressure to deliver of our fans,” he stated. “This win is fully merited, we were disciplined and the lads were outstanding.”
“It's fantastic for the region, the club, the fans. We knew before it was a huge game, but we have to refocus immediately as we have another difficult test in Brighton in one week.”
