Sunderland Recreate Notorious Newcastle Team Photo After ‘Special’ Derby Triumph.
A different manager and a largely changed squad – but those involved at Sunderland had a long memory.
Nearly two years ago, after Newcastle's thumping 3-0 win at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the Geordies marked the occasion with a team picture on the pitch.
On this occasion, the roles were reversed.
Nick Woltemade's unfortunate deflection proved enough to give Sunderland a historic 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 celebratory snapshot at full-time.
“Always unpredictable, creative, adaptive,” remarked Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when asked about who came up with the idea.
Defender Dan Ballard, who conceded an own goal in that cup defeat, was the only Sunderland player to feature from the beginning in each of the games.
He revealed how he was eager to rectify the loss, stating: “You cannot describe [the feeling]. It was agonizing for the players and for the fans. We felt we had disappointed them, so we're ecstatic with this win.”
“That experience hardened us. We came in with greater talent in this team, true characters, we persevered, fought really hard and I thought we merited the win.”
‘Rivalry games demand victory, regardless of the performance’
Occupying seventh spot Sunderland are enjoying a excellent return to the top flight post promotion via the play-offs last season.
The Black Cats have 26 points on the board in 16 games, their best return 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 boasted an incredible 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 longest such run without defeat against the Magpies.
Newcastle's last league win over Sunderland was all the way back in 2011.
Manager Regis le Bris said he was “proud and happy” with the result.
“It was a derby and we were under pressure to deliver of our fans,” he added. “This win is rightfully earned, we were composed and the lads were outstanding.”
“It's good for the area, the club, the fans. We knew before it was a huge game, but we have to refocus immediately as we have another tough challenge in Brighton in one week.”
