Sunderland force Alan Shearer to do the unthinkable after victory over Newcastle United
Sunderland secured a famous win in the Wear-Tyne derby, with former Newcastle United striker Alan Shearer forced to recognise their efforts.
Nick Woltemade’s own goal earned Sunderland the win, with the German heading Nordi Mukiele’s cross past Aaron Ramsdale to send the Stadium of Light wild.
The Black Cats have now extended their unbeaten run against Newcastle in the Premier League to 10 games, with 2011 being the last time they tasted defeat.
Regis Le Bris’ side showed the heart and character needed to win a derby, and even Magpies legend Shearer accepts Sunderland were the superior side.
Two Sunderland players catch Alan Shearer’s eye
Dan Ballard caused the Sunderland crowd to erupt with some of his big tackles on derby day, with the centre-back helping his side to a clean sheet.
Ballard’s superb performance earned him a place in Shearer’s Premier League Team of the Week, despite the pundit’s love for Newcastle.
Speaking about the Sunderland defender, Shearer said: “Didn’t put a foot wrong as he dealt with everything Newcastle’s attack had to throw at him.”
In an unthinkable turn of events, the former Newcastle man also included a second Sunderland player, Reinildo, in his team as the Black Cats’ derby day win forced him to put bias aside.
Shearer was left impressed by the Brazilian’s treatment of Anthony Elanga, as he gave the Magpies winger absolutely nothing on the left-hand side, saying: “Newcastle’s attackers had no joy down Reinildo’s flank. He nullified Anthony Elanga, who didn’t get a sniff.”
Sunderland had extra motivation against Newcastle
Newcastle came into the game against Sunderland as favourites, but Le Bris’ side didn’t let them rest at the Stadium of Light.
Eddie Howe’s side barely had a sniff throughout the 90 minutes and were comprehensively outworked by the Black Cats.
It seemed that Sunderland had a point to prove, and after the journey the club has been on since the last Wear-Tyne derby in the Premier League, it felt like it meant more to those in red and white.
The Black Cats have been superb on their return to the top flight, and victory over Newcastle only confirms that the good times are back for Sunderland.
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