Sunderland Mimic Iconic Magpies Group Snapshot In the Wake of ‘Special’ Local Rivalry Win.

An altered coaching staff and an almost completely different team – but those involved at Sunderland wasn't going to forget.

Back in 2024, after a comprehensive Magpies victory at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the Geordies commemorated the moment with a full squad photograph on the pitch.

Now, the script were flipped.

Nick Woltemade's own goal proved sufficient to deliver Sunderland a long-awaited win over their rivals in the return of the Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to stage their own version of Newcastle's post-match snapshot at full-time.

“Forever inventive, resourceful, flexible,” said with a grin Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when questioned about who suggested the photograph.

Defender Dan Ballard, who scored 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 explained how he desperately wanted to make amends for the loss, stating: “You cannot describe [the feeling]. It was so painful for the players and for the fans. We felt we had failed them, so we're delighted with this win.”

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

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

Seventh-placed Sunderland are having a superb return to the top flight post 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 yet to lose in the league at the Stadium of Light, which boasted an electric 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 remarkable and we're working really hard.”

Sunderland are also undefeated 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 all the way back in 2011.

Manager Regis le Bris said he was “delighted and satisfied” with the result.

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

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