Exclusive: Sunderland and Newcastle to be charged by FA after ‘ugly’ footage emerges
Sunderland’s narrow Tyne-Wear derby victory over Newcastle United on Sunday was full of flash points.
Nick Woltemade‘s spectacular own goal saw Sunderland beat Newcastle 1-0 at the Stadium of Light, extending their unbeaten Premier League run in the fixture to 10 games.
There had been nothing to separate the sides before the break, but just one minute into the second half, the German striker completely misjudged a defensive header and powered the ball past Aaron Ramsdale.
The bizarre goal would be the decider, with Sunderland defending their lead well, even with 10 men, when Granit Xhaka was forced off injured.
Dan Burn is in poor form for Newcastle and could well have been dropped, but the defender kept his place and ultimately went off injured before the break.
Keith Hackett promises fines for Sunderland and Newcastle
As should be expected, the Tyne-Wear derby was not without moments of confrontation throughout the 90 minutes.
Boiling point was reached in the closing moments when Joe Willock attempted to disrupt the emerging Robin Roefs, leaving the keeper in a heap on the floor after a late challenge.
| Sunderland | Match stats | Newcastle |
| 46% | Possession | 54% |
| 5 | Shots | 6 |
| 1 | Shots on target | 2 |
| 0.29 | Expected goals (xG) | 0.25 |
Sunderland protested, and attention turned to the centre of the pitch, where Lewis Hall, Malick Thiaw and Wilson Isidor were involved in a shoving match.
Both teams engulfed the trio, with four players subsequently booked by referee Peter Bankes.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett said: “Some ugly scenes at the Stadium of Light.
“In addition to the four yellow cards issued in that incident with the goalkeeper and the mass confrontation, both clubs will be charged with failing to control their players.
“These North East derbies are full of passion and on this occasion, decided by a stunning own goal. Each club will receive a substantial fine for sure.”
Newcastle’s fight came far too late
There was very little between the two sides at the Stadium of Light, but that will do nothing to soften the blow for Eddie Howe and Newcastle.
The Magpies were lacking in desire all over the pitch, losing their duels and constantly coming off second best.
What little fight they did show came in the dying seconds, when the ball was not even in play.
As has been the case for such a long time now, Newcastle continue to struggle away from St James’ Park. The Magpies have won just one Premier League game from eight played away this season.
It is a problem that will continue to pester Howe for as long as he lets it.