The Black Cats Recreate Iconic Newcastle Team Photo In the Wake of Pivotal Derby Triumph.

An altered coaching staff and a largely changed squad – but the club at Sunderland wasn't going to forget.

Back in 2024, after a dominant Newcastle performance at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the Geordies commemorated the moment with a full squad photograph on the pitch.

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

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 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 pressed about who suggested the idea.

Defender Dan Ballard, who conceded an own goal in that cup defeat, was the only Sunderland player to be in the starting XI in the two games.

He explained how he was determined 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.”

“That experience hardened us. We came in with more quality 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’

Sitting in seventh Sunderland are enjoying a excellent return to the top flight following promotion via the play-offs last season.

The Black Cats have 26 points in 16 games, their most at this stage of a Premier League campaign since 2000-01.

They are still unbeaten 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 merits greater recognition – where we are in the league is remarkable 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 all the way back in 2011.

Manager Regis le Bris said he was “delighted and satisfied” with the outcome.

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

“It's fantastic for the region, the club, the fans. We knew before it was a special game, but we have to refocus immediately as we have another tough challenge in Brighton in one week.”