SUNDERLAND have wasted no time adding insult to injury after defeating Newcastle 2-1 in the Tyne-Wear derby.
The Black Cats changed their X cover photo to their faithful fans inside St James’ Park in front of a banner reading ‘Eddie Howe‘s Black and White army‘.
Newcastle created a cauldron atmosphere early sported a giant tifo of a Magpie ready for war as well as the banner in the away end.
But their efforts proved for naught as Sunderland came back from 1-0 down to secure a 2-1 win thanks to goals from Chemsdine Talbi and Brian Bobbey.
It’s fair to say Sunderland are under Newcastle’s skin in more ways than one.
The Mackems are unbeaten in the last 11 meetings with their neighbours, the longest run without losing in the history of the derby.
The Black Cats have also beaten their black and white foes home and away this season thanks to a 1-0 at the Stadium of Light.
That’s the first time Sunderland have done the double over Newcastle since the 2014/15 season.
The derby was a feisty affair from the get-go with fans clashing in the streets before the early Sunday kick-off.
Bottles were hurled between fans and the Sunderland team bus arrived with a huge crack in the windscreen.
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On the pitch, there was also a nasty moment where play was halted in the second half after the racist abuse was hurled at Lutsharel Geertruida.
Captain Granit Xhaka brought the incident to the attention of referee Anthony Taylor who then discussed the abuse with Newcastle officials. Both clubs are said to be committed to bringing the perpetrator to justice.
Newcastle legend Alan Shearer – who scored the last of his 260 Premier League goals against Sunderland – did not hold back in his assessment after the final whistle on social media.
He said: “A pathetic, weak, lazy, limp second half from Newcastle again”.
Precious few would argue with the all-time Premier League goalscorer after another defeat for the Magpies.
