Sunderland Stage Iconic Newcastle Squad Picture After ‘Special’ Derby Victory.

A different manager and a largely changed squad – but those involved at Sunderland had a long memory.

Almost 24 months prior, after Newcastle's thumping 3-0 win at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the visitors celebrated with a full squad photograph on the pitch.

On this occasion, the script were flipped.

Nick Woltemade's unfortunate deflection proved decisive to deliver Sunderland a historic win over their rivals in the inaugural 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 asked about who suggested the gesture.

Defender Dan Ballard, who was unfortunate to score an own goal in that previous encounter, was the only Sunderland player to start in the two games.

He explained how he was determined to avenge 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 delighted with this win.”

“It served as motivation. We came in with improved ability in this team, real leaders, we stuck in there, fought really hard and I thought we merited the win.”

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

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 26 points on the board 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 had 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 merits greater recognition – 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 most extended period without defeat against the Magpies.

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

Manager Regis le Bris said he was “extremely pleased” with the performance.

“It was a derby and we were under pressure to deliver of our fans,” he stated. “This win is fully merited, we were composed and the lads were outstanding.”

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