‘Words can’t describe’ – Dan Ballard sums up Sunderland’s derby redemption win against Newcastle United
Dan Ballard praised Sunderland’s character and resilience after their Wear-Tyne derby win, admitting the victory felt like redemption
Dan Ballard spoke with pride and emotion after Sunderland’s Wear-Tyne derby victory, as the Black Cats edged past Newcastle United in a tense afternoon at the Stadium of Light.
The centre-back was central to Sunderland’s success, producing a commanding display at the back as Régis Le Bris’ side defended relentlessly to secure the points. It was a performance built on organisation, physicality and game management, with Sunderland limiting Newcastle to few clear openings despite spells of pressure.
For Ballard, the result carried extra meaning. The memories of the FA Cup defeat to Newcastle in January 2024 had not been forgotten, and this occasion felt like a chance to put things right in front of a raucous home crowd.
“Words can’t describe,” Ballard said. “Thinking back to the last game, that one hurt. For the fans, we felt like we let them down. We were so determined this time, especially the boys that experienced that day, so we’re delighted. It wasn’t the prettiest game, but we stuck in there, we fought really hard and we thoroughly deserved the win.”
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The decisive moment arrived early in the second half when Nick Woltemade inadvertently headed into his own net, sending the Stadium of Light into raptures. From that point on, Sunderland showed maturity beyond their Premier League experience, sitting in, winning duels and seeing the game out with composure. “There wasn’t much in the game in terms of chances,” Ballard added. “The first half was great, but when you go a goal ahead, it’s about managing the game, and I thought we did that really well. The boys were brilliant.”
As Sunderland celebrated in front of the Roker End at full-time, the result felt like more than just three points. It was a statement performance, a response to past disappointment, and another sign of a side growing quickly and learning how to win the games that matter most.
Régis Le Bris delivers verdict after Sunderland’s win against Newcastle United
Régis Le Bris believes Sunderland’s Wear-Tyne derby victory over Newcastle United underlined the speed of their development as a Premier League side.
The Black Cats edged a contest short on clear chances after Nick Woltemade turned the ball into his own net early in the second half. Sunderland had enjoyed more control before the break and went closest through a Dan Ballard header, before showing maturity late on to see the game out. Despite Newcastle enjoying spells of possession, Robin Roefs was rarely called into action as Sunderland managed the closing stages effectively.
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"Yeah, I'm happy," Le Bris said. "We expected a tough and tight game, and that was the case. I think during the first half, we showed great composure on the ball and without the ball. Tactically, I think it was really well played. The only regret at half-time was the final third.
"How could we create something more? We were a bit too patient sometimes. Finally, we found a solution just at the beginning of the second half. After that, we played a strong team. It was obvious that this was the first goal they were able to push. Our structure, 4-4-2, then 5-4-1, was strong."