The Black Cats Recreate Notorious Newcastle Squad Picture In the Wake of Pivotal Derby Victory.
New leadership and a largely changed squad – but those involved at Sunderland wasn't going to forget.
Almost 24 months prior, after a comprehensive Magpies victory at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the Geordies celebrated with a group photo on the pitch.
On this occasion, the situation were flipped.
Nick Woltemade's own goal 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 recreate Newcastle's iconic snapshot at full-time.
“Always unpredictable, creative, adaptive,” smiled Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when asked about who came up with the gesture.
Defender Dan Ballard, who conceded an own goal in that cup defeat, was the only Sunderland player to start in the two games.
He disclosed how he was determined to make amends for the loss, stating: “Words can't express it. It was heartbreaking for the players and for the fans. We felt we had disappointed them, so we're delighted with this win.”
“It prepared us more for today. We came in with improved ability in this team, strong personalities, we persevered, fought really hard and I thought we deserved the win.”
‘Local clashes are must-wins, by any means necessary’
Sitting in seventh Sunderland are having a excellent return to the top flight after promotion via the play-offs last season.
The Black Cats have 26 points on the board in 16 games, their highest total 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 had an incredible atmosphere for most of Sunday afternoon.
“These games are all about the victory, by hook or by crook,” 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 best-ever streak 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 result.
“It was a derby and we were carrying the hopes of our fans,” he stated. “This win is rightfully earned, we were mature and the lads were outstanding.”
“It's good for the local community, the club, the fans. We knew before it was a unique game, but we have to turn the page as we have another hard game in Brighton in one week.”
