Sunderland Stage Famous Newcastle Group Snapshot After Pivotal Derby Victory.
A different manager and an almost completely different team – but those involved at Sunderland wasn't going to forget.
Nearly two years ago, after a comprehensive Magpies victory at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the Geordies celebrated with a team picture on the pitch.
On this occasion, the situation were flipped.
Nick Woltemade's own goal proved decisive to hand Sunderland a memorable win over their rivals in the return of the Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to mimic Newcastle's celebratory snapshot at full-time.
“Consistently original, imaginative, versatile,” said with a grin Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when asked about who suggested the photograph.
Defender Dan Ballard, who was unfortunate to score an own goal in that previous encounter, was the sole Sunderland player to be in the starting XI in the two games.
He disclosed how he was determined to make amends for the loss, stating: “You cannot describe [the feeling]. It was agonizing for the players and for the fans. We felt we had let them down, so we're delighted with this win.”
“That experience hardened us. We came in with improved ability in this team, strong personalities, we stuck in there, fought really hard and I thought we deserved the win.”
‘Local clashes are must-wins, by any means necessary’
Seventh-placed Sunderland are having a superb 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 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 boasted an feverish 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 incredible and we're working really hard.”
Sunderland are also unbeaten 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 under pressure to deliver of our fans,” he stated. “This win is rightfully earned, we were mature and the lads were incredible.”
“It's good 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 tough challenge in Brighton in one week.”
