The Black Cats Mimic Famous Magpies Team Photo Following ‘Special’ Local Rivalry Triumph.

An altered coaching staff and a largely changed squad – but someone at Sunderland remembered vividly.

Almost 24 months prior, after a comprehensive Magpies victory at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the visitors celebrated with a team picture on the pitch.

This time, the roles 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.

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

Defender Dan Ballard, who conceded an own goal in that 2024 FA Cup tie, was the only Sunderland player to start in both games.

He explained how he was determined to rectify 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 served as motivation. We came in with greater talent in this team, strong personalities, we stuck in there, fought really hard and I thought we earned the win.”

‘Rivalry games demand victory, regardless of the performance’

Occupying seventh spot Sunderland are enjoying a excellent 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 highest total 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 electric atmosphere for most of Sunday afternoon.

“These games are all about the victory, by hook or by crook,” 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 unbeaten 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 “delighted and satisfied” with the outcome.

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

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