The Black Cats Stage Famous Newcastle Group Snapshot After Crucial Local Rivalry Win.

New leadership and a largely changed squad – but those involved at Sunderland had a long memory.

Nearly two years ago, after a comprehensive Magpies victory at the Stadium of Light in an FA Cup tie, the visitors celebrated with a team picture on the pitch.

This time, the roles were flipped.

Nick Woltemade's own goal proved decisive to deliver Sunderland a long-awaited win over their rivals in the return of the Premier League Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 – prompting the hosts to mimic Newcastle's celebratory snapshot at full-time.

“Consistently original, imaginative, versatile,” smiled Black Cats manager Regis le Bris when pressed about who proposed the gesture.

Defender Dan Ballard, who was unfortunate to score an own goal in that previous encounter, was the lone Sunderland player to be in the starting XI in the two games.

He revealed how he was eager to avenge 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 ecstatic with this win.”

“It prepared us more for today. We came in with improved ability in this team, strong personalities, we dug deep, 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 superb return to the top flight following promotion via the play-offs last season.

The Black Cats have 26 points in 16 games, their highest total 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 was filled with an incredible 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 incredible and we're working really hard.”

Sunderland are also without a loss 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 back in August 2011.

Manager Regis le Bris said he was “proud and happy” with the performance.

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

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