The Black Cats Recreate Famous Newcastle Group Snapshot After Crucial Derby Win.
New leadership and a largely changed squad – but those involved at Sunderland remembered vividly.
Nearly two years ago, after a dominant Newcastle performance at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the Geordies commemorated the moment with a full squad photograph on the pitch.
This time, the script were flipped.
Nick Woltemade's mistake proved enough to deliver Sunderland a long-awaited win over their rivals in the inaugural Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to mimic Newcastle's post-match snapshot at full-time.
“Forever inventive, resourceful, flexible,” remarked Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when questioned about who came up with the photograph.
Defender Dan Ballard, who conceded an own goal in that 2024 FA Cup tie, was the lone Sunderland player to be in the starting XI in the two games.
He disclosed how he was eager to rectify the loss, stating: “You cannot describe [the feeling]. It was so painful for the players and for the fans. We felt we had disappointed them, so we're overjoyed with this win.”
“It prepared us more for today. We came in with greater talent in this team, real leaders, 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 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 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 had an incredible atmosphere for most of Sunday afternoon.
“In local rivalry matches, the result is everything, the performance secondary,” 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 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 result.
“It was a derby and we were expected [to win] of our fans,” he continued. “This win is rightfully earned, we were disciplined and the lads were outstanding.”
“It's positive 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 difficult test in Brighton in one week.”
