The Black Cats Recreate Famous Newcastle Team Photo After Crucial Local Rivalry Victory.
An altered coaching staff and a largely changed squad – but those involved at Sunderland remembered vividly.
Nearly two years ago, after a comprehensive Magpies victory at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the Geordies celebrated with a full squad photograph on the pitch.
This time, the script were turned on their head.
Nick Woltemade's own goal proved sufficient to give Sunderland a long-awaited win over their rivals in the return of the Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to stage their own version of Newcastle's celebratory snapshot at full-time.
“Forever inventive, resourceful, flexible,” smiled Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when questioned about who suggested the idea.
Defender Dan Ballard, who was unfortunate to score an own goal in that 2024 FA Cup tie, was the lone Sunderland player to start in the two games.
He revealed how he was determined to rectify 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 greater talent in this team, real leaders, we dug deep, fought really hard and I thought we earned the win.”
‘Local clashes are must-wins, by any means necessary’
Occupying seventh spot Sunderland are having a outstanding return to the top flight post promotion via the play-offs last season.
The Black Cats have a tally of 26 points 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 boasted an feverish atmosphere for most of Sunday afternoon.
“Derbies, you have to win, it does not matter how,” 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 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 over a decade ago.
Manager Regis le Bris said he was “extremely pleased” with the performance.
“It was a derby and we were under pressure to deliver of our fans,” he added. “This win is well deserved, we were mature and the lads were outstanding.”
“It's fantastic for the region, the club, the fans. We knew before it was a special game, but we have to turn the page as we have another hard game in Brighton in one week.”
