Landmarks to be lit up red and white as fans are urged to stay home ahead of Sunderland AFC’s Wembley appearance

Cup fever is gripping Wearside as Sunderland City Council reveal that landmarks will be lit up red and white to show support for Lee Johnson’s side as they prepare to face League Two Tranmere Rovers at Wembley on Sunday, March 14.

Sunderland AFC’s colours will be seen overnight on both Saturday (March 13) and Sunday (March 14) at Hylton Castle, the Beacon of Light, the Northern Spire, Keel Square, Fulwell Mill, the white lighthouse at Seaburn, Market Square and High Street West.

Leader of Sunderland City Council, Councillor Graeme Miller has shown his support for the club ahead of the game.

Cllr Miller said: "The team has worked hard and done the city proud to reach another Wembley final.

"Their strength and stamina has been fantastic, despite a season without fans in the stadium to cheer them on.

"If the team continues playing the way we’ve seen in recent weeks we can hope to see a great performance and a positive result. Ha’way the Lads!"

Despite reaching Wembley for the third time in two years, fans will not be able to attend the game due to the Covid-19 pandemic and are being reminded to stay at home attend of the final.

Dr Fadi Khalil, local GP and Clinical Vice Chair of NHS Sunderland CCG, commented: “To see some silverware brought back to the city would be a much-needed boost right now.

“But please remember, the game is being played behind closed doors for a good reason, so we should all watch it behind closed doors too.

“Let’s celebrate our achievement of reaching Wembley by continuing to protect our families and friends.

"We’ve made great progress in getting the infection rates down and protecting our most vulnerable, so let’s not drop the ball by gathering with people outside of your bubble.

“Show your support by staying away.”

As well as landmarks being lit up, from Friday, March 12, road users will see the variable messaging signs at A183 Chester Road, A1018 Newcastle Road, A690 Durham Road displaying the messages: “Ha'way the Lads”, “Good luck” and “#WONTBEHOMEFORTEA”.

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