The Black Cats Recreate Notorious Newcastle Squad Picture Following Pivotal Local Rivalry Win.

An altered coaching staff and a vastly altered lineup – but those involved at Sunderland wasn't going to forget.

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

Now, the situation were reversed.

Nick Woltemade's unfortunate deflection proved enough to hand Sunderland a historic win over their rivals in the return of the Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to recreate Newcastle's post-match snapshot at full-time.

“Consistently original, imaginative, versatile,” remarked Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when pressed about who came up with the idea.

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 both games.

He disclosed how he desperately wanted to make amends for the loss, stating: “It's indescribable. It was heartbreaking for the players and for the fans. We felt we had let them down, so we're delighted with this win.”

“It prepared us more for today. We came in with greater talent in this team, true characters, we dug deep, fought really hard and I thought we deserved the win.”

‘Local clashes are must-wins, by any means necessary’

Occupying seventh spot Sunderland are enjoying a outstanding return to the top flight following promotion via the play-offs last season.

The Black Cats have a tally of 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 had 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 incredible 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 over a decade ago.

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 stated. “This win is rightfully earned, we were composed and the lads were superb.”

“It's good for the region, the club, the fans. We knew before it was a huge game, but we have to reset quickly as we have another difficult test in Brighton in one week.”