Sunderland vs. Newcastle: A Rivalry Reborn
Life can come at you fast if you’re a Sunderland supporter. In May 2016, manager Sam Allardyce celebrated Premier League survival and the relegation of rivals Newcastle. But by May 2018, Sunderland had been relegated twice and hired four different managers. Meanwhile, Newcastle reclaimed their Premier League place and was taken over by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. Now, the two teams will face each other in the FA Cup third round, and both clubs are unrecognizable from their previous encounter.
A Mismatch on Paper
On paper, the match seems like a mismatch. Newcastle, with a squad worth over £400 million, will face a young Sunderland side with an average age of just 23.4 years. However, historical records show that the rivalry between these two clubs has always been close. With 53 Newcastle wins, 50 Sunderland victories, and 50 draws in previous meetings, both clubs have taken turns being on top.
A Rivalry of Equals
“Throughout the history of the rivalry, the two clubs have largely been equal powers,” says Ian Murtagh, a journalist who has reported on both Newcastle and Sunderland for over 30 years. While Newcastle became the glamour club in the 1990s, Sunderland became an established Premier League team. However, with the Saudi Arabia takeover at Newcastle, the financial gap between the clubs has widened.
Sunderland’s Youthful Ambition
Sunderland’s blueprint under owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus is to focus on youth development. The club has built the youngest team in all four divisions and aims to deliver sustainable success. Manager Michael Beale, who previously experienced the Old Firm rivalry in Scotland, is excited about his first Tyne-Wear derby. Sunderland’s ambition is to showcase their young talent and prove themselves against a Champions League side.
A Reminder of Missed Opportunities
While the match serves as a measuring stick for Sunderland’s progress, it also reminds the club of what they continue to miss out on. Sunderland has enjoyed 15 seasons in England’s top flight, and their Premier League exile in the EFL is out of sync with their historical position. However, the club remains the best-supported team outside the Premier League.
As anticipation builds on both sides, the Tyne-Wear derby promises to be a captivating fixture. Sunderland and Newcastle will face each other once again, and both clubs have much to prove.