The Black Cats Stage Famous Newcastle Group Snapshot Following ‘Special’ Derby Victory.
An altered coaching staff and a vastly altered lineup – but those involved at Sunderland wasn't going to forget.
Almost 24 months prior, after Newcastle's thumping 3-0 win at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the visitors marked the occasion with a full squad photograph on the pitch.
This time, the roles were turned on their head.
Nick Woltemade's unfortunate deflection proved enough to deliver Sunderland a memorable 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 iconic snapshot at full-time.
“Consistently original, imaginative, versatile,” remarked Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when questioned about who proposed the photograph.
Defender Dan Ballard, who conceded an own goal in that 2024 FA Cup tie, was the only Sunderland player to feature from the beginning in the two games.
He disclosed how he was eager to rectify the loss, stating: “Words can't express it. It was agonizing for the players and for the fans. We felt we had disappointed them, so we're delighted with this win.”
“It prepared us more for today. We came in with more quality in this team, real leaders, we persevered, fought really hard and I thought we earned the win.”
‘Derbies you have to win, it does not matter how’
Occupying seventh spot Sunderland are experiencing a outstanding return to the top flight after promotion via the play-offs last season.
The Black Cats have 26 points in 16 games, their most at this stage of a Premier League campaign since 2000-01.
They are undefeated in the league at the Stadium of Light, which boasted an incredible atmosphere for most of Sunday afternoon.
“In local rivalry matches, the result is everything, the performance secondary,” said captain Granit Xhaka. “This team is worthy of more respect – where we are in the league is amazing and we're working really hard.”
Sunderland are also undefeated in their last 10 league games against Newcastle, their longest such run 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 outcome.
“It was a derby and we were under pressure to deliver of our fans,” he stated. “This win is well deserved, we were disciplined and the lads were superb.”
“It's good 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 difficult test in Brighton in one week.”
