Sunderland Mimic Iconic Newcastle Squad Picture After ‘Special’ Derby Victory.

An altered coaching staff and a vastly altered lineup – but those involved at Sunderland remembered vividly.

Nearly two years ago, after a comprehensive Magpies victory at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the rivals celebrated with a full squad photograph on the pitch.

This time, the roles were turned on their head.

Nick Woltemade's own goal proved decisive to deliver Sunderland a memorable win over their rivals in the first Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to recreate Newcastle's celebratory snapshot at full-time.

“Consistently original, imaginative, versatile,” smiled Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when asked about who suggested the gesture.

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

He revealed 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 let them down, so we're delighted with this win.”

“It served as motivation. We came in with improved ability in this team, true characters, we stuck in there, fought really hard and I thought we merited the win.”

‘Rivalry games demand victory, regardless of the performance’

Sitting in seventh Sunderland are having a superb 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 best return 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 deserves much more – 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 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 “proud and happy” with the performance.

“It was a derby and we were under pressure to deliver of our fans,” he continued. “This win is well deserved, we were disciplined and the lads were outstanding.”

“It's good for the area, the club, the fans. We knew before it was a special game, but we have to refocus immediately as we have another tough challenge in Brighton in one week.”