Derby win over Newcastle won’t distract us – Sunderland boss, Le Bris

Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris has insisted that his side will not allow Sunday’s memorable victory over Newcastle United to distract them, despite the significance of the result in the first Premier League Tyne–Wear derby in nearly a decade.

The promoted Black Cats secured a 1-0 win over their northeast rivals at the Stadium of Light, a result that lifted them to seventh place on the Premier League table with 26 points. The decisive moment came shortly after the restart, when Newcastle’s record signing Nick Woltemade turned the ball into his own net.

Sunderland’s players celebrated the hard-earned victory with a group photograph on the pitch after the final whistle, a gesture that mirrored Newcastle’s celebrations following their 3-0 FA Cup win on Wearside in January last year. However, Le Bris was quick to stress that emotions must be kept in check.

“We have to stay smart and respectful. It’s a game and when you win, you’re happy,” the French coach said. “Some players have been here for a long time and understand how important this derby is, especially after losing the previous one. Now it’s about being composed. You can enjoy the moment and then reset because another tough challenge is coming.”

Sunderland controlled possession for large spells of the first half and showed defensive discipline after taking the lead, resisting Newcastle’s attempts to find an equaliser as Eddie Howe’s side pushed forward without success.

The last Premier League meeting between both clubs was in March 2016, a contest that ended in a 1-1 draw, making Sunday’s encounter even more significant for Sunderland supporters.

The defeat left Newcastle 12th on the table ahead of their League Cup quarter-final clash against Fulham this week, although they remain in the hunt for automatic qualification to the Champions League last 16.

Reflecting on the loss, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe admitted his side fell short offensively. He said while his team defended reasonably well, they struggled to break down Sunderland’s resilience.

“We know our performance wasn’t at the level we needed, not defensively, but in terms of opening them up,” Howe said. “Criticism comes with every defeat, but with this one it will be louder because of the importance of the game. We accept that, and that’s why it hurts so much.”

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