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Waiting for thirteen years before finally winning a derby day match may seem like a long time, but when your rival team essentially hands the win to you and also makes mistakes prior to the match, the victory becomes even more satisfying.
Eddie Howe was in desperate need of this success. Several Geordie managers, such as Ruud Gullit and Alan Pardew, have been brought down by losses to Sunderland. Howe, who has been in charge for some time now, was facing intense pressure after his team suffered six defeats in the last seven league games leading up to a derby match that no one was particularly excited about.
Sunderland are a team in transition under new boss Michael Beale and operate in a different world, in terms of spending power, to Newcastle – a clash between the pair reminds supporters of this gulf these two, once on a similar level playing field, have between them.
If Newcastle had defeated their opponents, as a strong contender for a top-four spot in the Premier League should, fans of Sunderland would have been able to accept their nine-game undefeated streak against their nearby rivals with less frustration. However, what actually occurred was a chaotic situation that has become characteristic of this area in recent years – one that they brought upon themselves.
Despite feeling anxious, fans were still determined to make the most of their day. Fortunately, no horses were injured during the derby thanks to a significant police presence that kept fans separated from the start of the event to the stands.
There was no risk involved. 6,000 fans of Newcastle had to line up at St James’ Park five hours prior to the game to receive their tickets. They were then transported by double-decker buses, accompanied by police, to the nearby Stadium of Light. This is a classic representation of a northern football rivalry.
Emotions were elevated at certain moments during the first Tyne-Wear derby in eight years.
Inside the ground, they had the best seats in the house, however, having been given the whole of the South Stand, much to the annoyance of home season ticket holders displaced to accommodate their arch-enemy, days after someone thought it a good idea to adorn the Black Cat Sports Bar inside the stadium with Newcastle colours and anti-Peter Reid messaging.
The lavish treatment extended onto the field as, despite the intense energy, Newcastle easily dominated the first half without any opposition.
Sean Longstaff came close to scoring three times, Alexander Isak may have been able to earn a penalty after appearing to be pushed in the box, and Miguel Almiron had a near miss with a spectacular shot.
The welcoming reception reached a new level during the Newcastle opener, when Dan Ballard accidentally redirected Joelinton’s cross into his own goal in the 35th minute.
Despite being behind 1-0, Sunderland failed to come out with a strong attack in the second half. Instead, they took on the role of a host, as Pierre Ekwah carelessly gave the ball away near their own penalty area. This allowed Almiron to pass to Isak, who sealed the game and caused jubilant reactions from the away fans.
The Newcastle forward, Alexander Isak, netted two goals during the city rivalry match.
Sunderland eventually began pushing players forward, resulting in Martin Dubravka making two impressive saves. However, Ballard’s final action was to intentionally foul Anthony Gordon, resulting in Newcastle being awarded a late penalty. Isak successfully converted the penalty, adding the final touch to an already well-executed game.
Newcastle has finally put an end to their struggles and now has something valuable in the current Premier League climate – time. This will allow them to regather their team, as well as bring back injured players, and give Howe the opportunity to work with the squad on the training ground to address any deficiencies they may have.
This is where Howe excels – crafting a strategic plan over a period of time to ensure his team is fully prepared for upcoming challenges. During their poor performance streak, Newcastle has appeared to lack creativity and determination, but most importantly, energy. For a significant stretch, Howe was forced to rely on the same starting lineup, including a player who was only nine years old the last time Newcastle and Sunderland competed against each other.
Lewis Miley can finally take a much-needed break, as other players are returning to give relief to weary legs. With more choices at his disposal and successfully overcoming a daunting challenge in the neighboring city, the top four (or possibly even higher) could be within reach again if victories against Manchester City and Aston Villa are secured by the end of the month.
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