The Black Cats Recreate Famous Magpies Team Photo Following Pivotal Local Rivalry Triumph.

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

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

This time, the roles were flipped.

Nick Woltemade's unfortunate deflection proved enough to deliver Sunderland a historic win over their rivals in the return of the 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 asked about who suggested the photograph.

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

He disclosed how he was determined to avenge the loss, stating: “Words can't express it. It was heartbreaking 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 improved ability in this team, real leaders, we stuck in there, fought really hard and I thought we earned 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 a tally of 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 boasted an incredible 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 longest such run 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 expected [to win] of our fans,” he stated. “This win is fully merited, we were disciplined and the lads were incredible.”

“It's fantastic for the local community, 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.”