The Black Cats Recreate Notorious Magpies Team Photo In the Wake of ‘Special’ Derby Victory.
An altered coaching staff and an almost completely different team – but those involved at Sunderland remembered vividly.
Back in 2024, 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.
This time, the script were turned on their head.
Nick Woltemade's unfortunate deflection proved sufficient to deliver Sunderland a memorable win over their rivals in the first Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to mimic Newcastle's celebratory snapshot at full-time.
“Forever inventive, resourceful, flexible,” said with a grin Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when questioned about who proposed 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 feature from the beginning in both games.
He disclosed 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 failed them, so we're overjoyed with this win.”
“That experience hardened us. We came in with greater talent in this team, strong personalities, we stuck in there, fought really hard and I thought we earned the win.”
‘Local clashes are must-wins, by any means necessary’
Seventh-placed 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 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 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 merits greater recognition – 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 under pressure to deliver of our fans,” he stated. “This win is fully merited, we were composed and the lads were incredible.”
“It's fantastic for the area, the club, the fans. We knew before it was a huge game, but we have to turn the page as we have another difficult test in Brighton in one week.”
