Sunderland and Newcastle fans clashed in nasty scenes ahead of the Tyne-Wear derby on Sunday morning.
In the build-up to the 12PM kick off, both sets of supporters were involved in altercations as fights broke out just outside St James’ Park.
One video showed Sunderland fans holding their heads after being struck by bottles thrown as they made their way to the stadium amid the clashes.
Daily Mail Sport’s CRAIG HOPE reported that one fan even received CPR before being taken away by emergency services, although it is unclear if that was related to the tensions.
Posting on X, he said: ‘Fighting outside of St James’ Park. One fan appeared in a bad way. CPR administered before being taken away. Not good.’
The coach driving the Sunderland players was also pelted with bottles as it tried to leave the area – and each bottle that hit the vehicle was greeted by cheers.
Sunderland and Newcastle fans clashed in nasty scenes ahead of the Tyne-Wear derby
The clashes took place just outside St James’ Park before the game got underway at 12PM
Police rushed to control the situation ahead of the first Tyne-Wear derby at St James’ Park since 2016
Reports suggested the coach was left with a big crack on the windscreen.
The Telegraph reported that the chaos arose after a group of Sunderland supporters made the decision to walk to the stadium without a police escort.
The majority of Sunderland fans travelled from Newcastle train station to the stadium with Northumbria Police, who largely did a good job of keeping both sets of supporters apart.
Newcastle fans had congregated outside the Sandman Hotel, which is just outside the ground, and were producing a raucous atmosphere with flares alight alongside plenty of chanting.
The first group of Sunderland supporters managed to get through without trouble, although cans, bottles and drinks were thrown at them as they passed.
However, a second group of fans had no such luck after they unveiled a Sunderland flag on their way through, with punches thrown and missiles hurled.
The Sunderland flag was taken off them by home supporters and police quickly moved to separate the rival groups, who even clashed with authorities.
Videos from the incident demonstrated teh chaotic scenes as sirens sounded in the background while police rushed around.
To add to the drama, the road still appeared to be open to the public as some cars drove through slowly.
In the background sirens could be heard sounding as tensions rose on Sunday morning
Northumbria Police had urged fans to behave to ensure the game went ahead ‘without incident’
This is the first time the two teams have met at St James’ Park since 2016 and Northumbria Police had urged fans to behave to ensure the game goes ahead ‘without incident’.
Chief Superintendent Mark Hall said: ‘We are aware of and appreciate the widespread excitement for the upcoming game between Newcastle United and Sunderland.
‘Football fans in our region are renowned for being among the most passionate across the country.
‘The return of this fixture has been highly anticipated among both sets of supporters.
‘Our role is to help ensure that all those in attendance are able to enjoy the experience safely, and disruption for other members of the public is kept to a minimum.’
Sunderland won the reverse fixture 1-0 in a game that passed without major incident between supporters.
Daily Mail Sport contacted Northumbria Police for comment following the ugly scenes.
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