The Black Cats Mimic Notorious Magpies Squad Picture In the Wake of ‘Special’ Derby Triumph.

New leadership and a largely changed squad – but the club 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 visitors celebrated with a group photo on the pitch.

This time, the roles were flipped.

Nick Woltemade's mistake proved enough to deliver Sunderland a long-awaited 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.

“Forever inventive, resourceful, flexible,” smiled Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when questioned about who suggested the idea.

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

He revealed how he was determined to avenge the loss, stating: “It's indescribable. It was agonizing for the players and for the fans. We felt we had failed them, so we're overjoyed with this win.”

“It prepared us more for today. We came in with improved ability in this team, strong personalities, we persevered, fought really hard and I thought we deserved the win.”

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

Seventh-placed Sunderland are experiencing a outstanding return to the top flight post promotion via the play-offs last season.

The Black Cats have 26 points on the board 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 electric atmosphere for most of Sunday afternoon.

“Derbies, you have to win, it does not matter how,” said captain Granit Xhaka. “This team deserves much more – where we are in the league is amazing and we're working really hard.”

Sunderland are also undefeated in their last 10 league games against Newcastle, their best-ever streak without defeat against the Magpies.

Newcastle's last league win over Sunderland was over a decade ago.

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

“It was a derby and we were under pressure to deliver of our fans,” he stated. “This win is rightfully earned, we were mature and the lads were superb.”

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