The Black Cats Recreate Iconic Magpies Group Snapshot Following Pivotal Local Rivalry Triumph.

New leadership and a vastly altered lineup – but those involved at Sunderland wasn't going to forget.

Nearly two years ago, after a dominant Newcastle performance at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the Geordies celebrated with a full squad photograph on the pitch.

On this occasion, the situation were reversed.

Nick Woltemade's unfortunate deflection proved decisive to give Sunderland a historic 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.

“Always unpredictable, creative, adaptive,” said with a grin Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when pressed about who came up with the idea.

Defender Dan Ballard, who scored an own goal in that previous encounter, was the lone Sunderland player to feature from the beginning in each of the games.

He explained how he desperately wanted to avenge the loss, stating: “Words can't express it. It was agonizing 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 persevered, fought really hard and I thought we deserved the win.”

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

Seventh-placed Sunderland are having 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 best return at this stage of a Premier League campaign since 2000-01.

They are undefeated in the league at the Stadium of Light, which had 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 merits greater recognition – where we are in the league is incredible and we're working really hard.”

Sunderland are also unbeaten 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 “extremely pleased” with the outcome.

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

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