Sunderland Stage Famous Newcastle Squad Picture In the Wake of ‘Special’ Derby Victory.
New leadership and a vastly altered lineup – but those involved at Sunderland remembered vividly.
Almost 24 months prior, after a comprehensive Magpies victory at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the Geordies marked the occasion with a full squad photograph on the pitch.
Now, the roles were flipped.
Nick Woltemade's mistake proved decisive to deliver 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 photograph.
Defender Dan Ballard, who was unfortunate to score an own goal in that 2024 FA Cup tie, was the lone Sunderland player to be in the starting XI in both games.
He disclosed how he was determined to rectify the loss, stating: “It's indescribable. It was heartbreaking for the players and for the fans. We felt we had failed them, so we're overjoyed with this win.”
“That experience hardened us. We came in with greater talent in this team, real leaders, we persevered, fought really hard and I thought we deserved the win.”
‘Rivalry games demand victory, regardless of the performance’
Sitting in seventh Sunderland are enjoying a outstanding return to the top flight post 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 undefeated in the league at the Stadium of Light, which had 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 remarkable and we're working really hard.”
Sunderland are also unbeaten 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 “extremely pleased” with the performance.
“It was a derby and we were under pressure to deliver of our fans,” he continued. “This win is rightfully earned, we were composed and the lads were incredible.”
“It's good for the region, the club, the fans. We knew before it was a special game, but we have to refocus immediately as we have another difficult test in Brighton in one week.”
