The Black Cats Stage Iconic Magpies Squad Picture After ‘Special’ Local Rivalry Victory.

New leadership and an almost completely different team – but the club at Sunderland had a long memory.

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

This time, the situation were turned on their head.

Nick Woltemade's mistake proved enough to deliver Sunderland a memorable win over their rivals in the inaugural Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to mimic Newcastle's celebratory snapshot at full-time.

“Consistently original, imaginative, versatile,” remarked Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when pressed about who suggested the photograph.

Defender Dan Ballard, who was unfortunate to score an own goal in that 2024 FA Cup tie, was the sole Sunderland player to be in the starting XI in both games.

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

“It served as motivation. We came in with greater talent 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’

Occupying seventh spot Sunderland are enjoying a superb return to the top flight following 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 was filled with an feverish 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 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 “delighted and satisfied” with the performance.

“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 positive for the region, the club, the fans. We knew before it was a huge game, but we have to turn the page as we have another tough challenge in Brighton in one week.”