The Black Cats Mimic Iconic Newcastle Squad Picture Following Pivotal Local Rivalry Win.

An altered coaching staff and an almost completely different team – but those involved at Sunderland remembered vividly.

Nearly two years ago, after Newcastle's thumping 3-0 win at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the visitors celebrated with a team picture on the pitch.

On this occasion, the roles were turned on their head.

Nick Woltemade's mistake proved sufficient 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,” said with a grin Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when questioned about who came up with the gesture.

Defender Dan Ballard, who was unfortunate to score an own goal in that cup defeat, was the sole Sunderland player to start in the two games.

He explained how he was determined to make amends for the loss, stating: “Words can't express it. It was heartbreaking for the players and for the fans. We felt we had let them down, so we're ecstatic 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.”

‘Rivalry games demand victory, regardless of the performance’

Sitting in seventh Sunderland are experiencing a outstanding return to the top flight following 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 electric atmosphere for most of Sunday afternoon.

“Derbies, you have to win, it does not matter how,” said captain Granit Xhaka. “This team is worthy of more respect – 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 most extended period 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 stated. “This win is fully merited, we were composed and the lads were incredible.”

“It's fantastic for the region, the club, the fans. We knew before it was a special game, but we have to turn the page as we have another difficult test in Brighton in one week.”