Sunderland beat Newcastle 1-0 in the first Premier League Tyne-Wear derby in nearly a decade, with manager Regis Le Bris warning against complacency
SUNDERLAND manager Regis Le Bris insisted his team would stay grounded after a historic 1-0 victory over arch-rivals Newcastle United.
The win in the first Premier League Tyne-Wear derby for nearly a decade lifted the promoted Black Cats to seventh place in the table.
The decisive moment was a Nick Woltemade own goal early in the second half at the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland players celebrated with a group photo on the pitch, mimicking Newcastle’s celebration after a cup win last year.
Le Bris stressed the importance of maintaining focus after the emotional victory.
“We have to stay smart and respectful,” the Frenchman said.
He acknowledged the significance of the derby for long-serving players but emphasised the need to reset for the next challenge.
Sunderland controlled possession in the first half and defended resolutely after taking the lead.
The last Premier League meeting between the sides was a 1-1 draw in March 2016.
The defeat leaves Newcastle in 12th place ahead of their League Cup quarter-final against Fulham.
Newcastle remain in contention for automatic qualification to the Champions League last 16.
Manager Eddie Howe admitted his team’s performance was below the required standard.
“We know our performance was off what we needed it to be,” Howe said.
He accepted that criticism would be louder due to the importance of the local derby.
