Régis Le Bris delivers verdict on Sunderland's Wear-Tyne derby win and what it showed about his team

Régis Le Bris says Sunderland's Wear-Tyne derby win over Newcastle United showed how quickly they are growing as a Premier League team.

The Black Cats won a derby of few chances after Nick Woltemade headed into his own goal early in the second, but the hosts had controlled possession in the first half and had the best chance through a Dan Ballard header. Sunderland then managed the game well in the closing stages, with Robin Roefs having few saves to make despite Newcastle United dominating possession.

"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."

Le Bris says his side's first-half performance was a sign of their growing experience, the only challenge being turning that control into clear opportunity.

"I think we are getting more and more experienced now," Le Bris said.

"I think the squad is getting better. We are young, it's our first year in the Premier League. After tough experiences, Liverpool and City, I think now we are growing. I think it's positive. I'm not really surprised. It's probably a bit different from the level we expected. The question was, how can we score now?"

Sunderland again showed their defensive quality in the closing stages to see out the game, as they have done so often over the last 18 months.

"It's so important to protect properly your goal," Le Bris said.

"It's tough to score. One of the main parts, not the main part, but an important part of the game model we have is the ability to defend. Is it in a low block, in a big block, in high press, against counter-attacks as well? I think the lads did this part of the game really well today."

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Régis Le Bris hails 'impressive Sunderland fans

Le Bris paid tribute to the support from the home support and how his players used that energy to their advantage.

"The atmosphere was impressive," Le Bris said.

"I think now the lads are able to connect with the stands, to manage the momentum, to feel when it's time to use set-pieces, for example, to manage and generate momentum. At the end of the game, just those spikes, which I think are really important for the energy of the squad."

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