The Black Cats Stage Famous Newcastle Team Photo After ‘Special’ Local Rivalry Triumph.
New leadership and a largely changed squad – 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 celebrated with a team picture on the pitch.
This time, the script were turned on their head.
Nick Woltemade's unfortunate deflection proved sufficient to hand Sunderland a memorable win over their rivals in the first 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,” remarked Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when asked about who suggested the photograph.
Defender Dan Ballard, who scored an own goal in that cup defeat, was the lone Sunderland player to be in the starting XI in both games.
He disclosed how he was eager 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 failed them, so we're ecstatic with this win.”
“That experience hardened us. We came in with improved ability in this team, real leaders, we stuck in there, fought really hard and I thought we earned the win.”
‘Rivalry games demand victory, regardless of the performance’
Occupying seventh spot Sunderland are having a outstanding return to the top flight following 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 yet to lose in the league at the Stadium of Light, which was filled with 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 unbeaten 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 back in August 2011.
Manager Regis le Bris said he was “extremely pleased” with the outcome.
“It was a derby and we were expected [to win] of our fans,” he added. “This win is fully merited, we were composed 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 turn the page as we have another hard game in Brighton in one week.”
