The Black Cats Recreate Iconic Magpies Squad Picture In the Wake of ‘Special’ Derby Win.
An altered coaching staff and a vastly altered lineup – but the club at Sunderland remembered vividly.
Nearly two years ago, after a dominant Newcastle performance at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the rivals celebrated with a team picture on the pitch.
On this occasion, the script were flipped.
Nick Woltemade's own goal proved sufficient to give Sunderland a long-awaited win over their rivals in the inaugural Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to stage their own version of Newcastle's post-match snapshot at full-time.
“Forever inventive, resourceful, flexible,” remarked Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when pressed about who suggested the photograph.
Defender Dan Ballard, who was unfortunate to score an own goal in that 2024 FA Cup tie, was the only Sunderland player to be in the starting XI in each of the games.
He explained how he was determined to make amends for the loss, stating: “You cannot describe [the feeling]. It was heartbreaking for the players and for the fans. We felt we had let them down, so we're ecstatic with this win.”
“That experience hardened us. We came in with greater talent in this team, strong personalities, we dug deep, fought really hard and I thought we earned the win.”
‘Derbies you have to win, it does not matter how’
Sitting in seventh Sunderland are enjoying 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 highest total at this stage of a Premier League campaign since 2000-01.
They are still unbeaten in the league at the Stadium of Light, which was filled with an feverish 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 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 “delighted and satisfied” with the performance.
“It was a derby and we were carrying the hopes of our fans,” he added. “This win is fully merited, we were composed and the lads were superb.”
“It's positive 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.”
