The Black Cats Mimic Iconic Magpies Group Snapshot After Pivotal Derby Win.

A different manager and a vastly altered lineup – but those involved at Sunderland had a long memory.

Back in 2024, after Newcastle's thumping 3-0 win at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the visitors marked the occasion with a team picture on the pitch.

This time, the script were turned on their head.

Nick Woltemade's own goal proved enough to hand Sunderland a historic win over their rivals in the first Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to stage their own version of Newcastle's celebratory snapshot at full-time.

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

Defender Dan Ballard, who was unfortunate to score an own goal in that 2024 FA Cup tie, was the sole Sunderland player to feature from the beginning in each of the games.

He disclosed how he was determined to make amends for the loss, stating: “You cannot describe [the feeling]. It was heartbreaking for the players and for the fans. We felt we had failed them, so we're ecstatic with this win.”

“That experience hardened us. We came in with improved ability in this team, strong personalities, we stuck in there, fought really hard and I thought we merited the win.”

‘Derbies you have to win, it does not matter how’

Occupying seventh spot Sunderland are enjoying a outstanding return to the top flight post 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 yet to lose in the league at the Stadium of Light, which was filled with an incredible 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 without a loss 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 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 fully merited, 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 difficult test in Brighton in one week.”