The Black Cats Recreate Famous Magpies Group Snapshot In the Wake of ‘Special’ Derby Win.

New leadership and an almost completely different team – but those involved at Sunderland wasn't going to forget.

Nearly two years ago, after a comprehensive Magpies victory at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the rivals commemorated the moment with a full squad photograph on the pitch.

Now, the roles were turned on their head.

Nick Woltemade's own goal proved enough to hand Sunderland a long-awaited 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 iconic snapshot at full-time.

“Forever inventive, resourceful, flexible,” remarked Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when pressed about who came up with the photograph.

Defender Dan Ballard, who conceded an own goal in that previous encounter, was the sole Sunderland player to start in both games.

He revealed how he desperately wanted to rectify the loss, stating: “Words can't express it. It was so painful for the players and for the fans. We felt we had failed them, so we're overjoyed with this win.”

“That experience hardened us. We came in with greater talent in this team, strong personalities, we stuck in there, fought really hard and I thought we merited the win.”

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

Seventh-placed Sunderland are enjoying a outstanding return to the top flight after 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 undefeated in the league at the Stadium of Light, which was filled with an feverish atmosphere for most of Sunday afternoon.

“Derbies, you have to win, it does not matter how,” said captain Granit Xhaka. “This team merits greater recognition – 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 “extremely pleased” with the outcome.

“It was a derby and we were expected [to win] of our fans,” he stated. “This win is rightfully earned, we were disciplined and the lads were outstanding.”

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