The Black Cats Mimic Iconic Magpies Group Snapshot After Pivotal Derby Victory.
New leadership and a vastly altered lineup – but someone 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 rivals commemorated the moment with a team picture on the pitch.
On this occasion, the roles were reversed.
Nick Woltemade's own goal proved sufficient to hand Sunderland a historic win over their rivals in the first Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to recreate Newcastle's post-match snapshot at full-time.
“Always unpredictable, creative, adaptive,” remarked Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when pressed about who suggested the photograph.
Defender Dan Ballard, who conceded an own goal in that cup defeat, was the only Sunderland player to start in the two games.
He disclosed how he desperately wanted to avenge 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 improved ability 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’
Seventh-placed Sunderland are experiencing 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 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.
“Derbies, you have to win, it does not matter how,” 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 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 “proud and happy” with the outcome.
“It was a derby and we were under pressure to deliver of our fans,” he continued. “This win is rightfully earned, we were mature and the lads were incredible.”
“It's fantastic for the local community, the club, the fans. We knew before it was a special game, but we have to refocus immediately as we have another hard game in Brighton in one week.”
