The Black Cats Mimic Iconic Magpies Group Snapshot Following ‘Special’ Local Rivalry Triumph.

An altered coaching staff and a vastly altered lineup – but those involved at Sunderland had a long memory.

Back in 2024, after a comprehensive Magpies victory at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the rivals commemorated the moment with a group photo on the pitch.

Now, the roles were reversed.

Nick Woltemade's unfortunate deflection proved decisive to give Sunderland a memorable win over their rivals in the inaugural Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to stage their own version of Newcastle's iconic snapshot at full-time.

“Forever inventive, resourceful, flexible,” remarked Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when pressed about who came up with the gesture.

Defender Dan Ballard, who was unfortunate to score an own goal in that 2024 FA Cup tie, was the lone Sunderland player to start in each of the games.

He disclosed how he was eager to rectify the loss, stating: “Words can't express it. It was agonizing for the players and for the fans. We felt we had disappointed them, so we're overjoyed with this win.”

“That experience hardened us. We came in with improved ability in this team, real leaders, we dug deep, fought really hard and I thought we merited the win.”

‘Derbies you have to win, it does not matter how’

Sitting in seventh 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 undefeated in the league at the Stadium of Light, which was filled with an electric atmosphere for most of Sunday afternoon.

“These games are all about the victory, by hook or by crook,” said captain Granit Xhaka. “This team merits greater recognition – where we are in the league is remarkable and we're working really hard.”

Sunderland are also undefeated 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 over a decade ago.

Manager Regis le Bris said he was “extremely pleased” with the performance.

“It was a derby and we were carrying the hopes of our fans,” he added. “This win is well deserved, we were disciplined and the lads were incredible.”

“It's fantastic for the local community, 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.”