The Black Cats Stage Notorious Newcastle Squad Picture After Crucial Local Rivalry Victory.

New leadership and a vastly altered lineup – but someone at Sunderland remembered vividly.

Almost 24 months prior, after Newcastle's thumping 3-0 win at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the rivals commemorated the moment with a group photo on the pitch.

Now, the roles were reversed.

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

“Consistently original, imaginative, versatile,” said with a grin 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 the two games.

He disclosed how he desperately wanted to rectify the loss, stating: “Words can't express it. 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, real leaders, we stuck in there, fought really hard and I thought we deserved the win.”

‘Rivalry games demand victory, regardless of the performance’

Occupying seventh spot Sunderland are experiencing a outstanding return to the top flight after 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 boasted 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 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 back in August 2011.

Manager Regis le Bris said he was “proud and happy” with the performance.

“It was a derby and we were expected [to win] of our fans,” he continued. “This win is fully merited, we were disciplined and the lads were outstanding.”

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