Sunderland Triumphs Over Newcastle United in Dramatic Wear-Tyne Derby
Sunderland secured a 1-0 victory against Newcastle United in the Wear-Tyne derby thanks to an own goal by Nick Woltemade, which came from a cross by Nordi Mukiele shortly after half-time. Woltemade had been a persistent presence in Newcastle's attack for 75 minutes before the costly error. Following the own goal, Woltemade was substituted for Yoane Wissa and was met with a sarcastic ovation from Sunderland supporters.
This match marked the first Premier League derby between the two sides in nearly a decade, coinciding with Sunderland's return to the top flight after an eight-season absence. Newcastle extended their winless streak at the Stadium of Light to four straight defeats and have now failed to beat Sunderland in their last 10 league encounters.
The referee, Peter Bankes, booked nine players during the intense fixture. Ahead of kick-off, Sunderland honored club legend Gary Rowell, who recently passed away after a long illness.
The day's events included local cultural activities, such as a Sleeping Beauty pantomime at the Empire Theatre and a stadium tifo depicting a ferocious black cat, contributing to a season described as a pantomime on Wearside.
According to The Guardian, Sunderland's progress this season is part of a broader transformation guided by manager Régis Le Bris, featuring a summer rebuild that saw the arrival of 14 new signings, including Noah Sadiki.
