Two Years of Change at Sunderland
Nearly two years ago, after a comfortable FA Cup third-round victory against Sunderland, Newcastle United’s players and staff gathered at the northern end of the Stadium of Light. They took a team photo in front of their 6,500 traveling fans, marking a definitive end to a humbling 3-0 loss for their north-east rivals. This act symbolized Newcastle establishing dominance over Sunderland.
A Shift in Dynamics
Since then, much has altered for Sunderland, who have faced challenging times under Michael Beale and struggled in the second-tier Championship. However, it has become evident that they have not forgotten the past encounters. “Someone mentioned the picture Newcastle took a few years back,” Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs stated. “We used the memory of that moment as extra motivation.”
A Moment of Reflection
Forty-seven players and staff, including head coach Regis Le Bris, gathered in the same penalty area where Nick Woltemade’s unfortunate header had crossed the line just an hour prior. Sunderland’s captain, Granit Xhaka, referred to it as “a little bit of karma” following their 1-0 victory at home.
The Emotional Derby
Le Bris acknowledged the significance of the derby in his press conference. He noted that experienced players understand its importance, especially after a previous loss. He smiled when asked if the post-match gathering was planned, mentioning a speech by former striker Michael Proctor.
Sunderland’s Bright Future
Since securing promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs in May, Sunderland has collected 26 points from their first 16 top-flight matches, placing them in a promising position as Christmas approaches. Le Bris emphasized the need for composure as their players depart for Africa Cup of Nations duty.
Remembering a Local Legend
The match also held poignant moments, particularly with the passing of Sunderland legend Gary Rowell the day before. Supporters honored him with tributes, showcasing his significance in the club’s history. Fans remembered Rowell through songs and collective applause, honoring a player who represented the community.
A Shift in Identity
In contrast to previous encounters, the teams reflected a changed demographic, as only two local players were featured—Dan Burn and Lewis Miley from Newcastle. The local connection remains vital among supporters, but the makeup of the players diverges from tradition. This dynamic continues to evolve, highlighting the blend of local and international influences within the teams.
