Newcastle vs Sunderland Derby: A Rivalry on Hold – Are Fans Ready for the Showdown to Return?
For football fans in the Northeast of England, there is a rivalry unmatched by any other. The Newcastle vs Sunderland derby is one of the most fiercely contested in the world. The two cities, separated by just 12 miles, have been enemies since the early 20th century. At its peak, the derby brought together over 50,000 fans, and was considered one of the most popular fixtures in the English Premier League. However, in recent years, the rivalry has been put on hold as the two clubs have been playing in different leagues. But with the possibility of Sunderland’s return to the Championship division, fans are wondering if the derby might be resurrected.
The History of the Newcastle vs Sunderland Derby
The Newcastle vs Sunderland derby has a long and storied history, dating back to 1898. At the time, Newcastle United, one of the oldest clubs in England, was already a well-established force in the game. Sunderland, on the other hand, had only been founded three years earlier, but was already making a name for themselves in the Second Division. When the two sides met for the first time, it was in a Second Division fixture that would draw over 20,000 fans. Although Sunderland won that first contest, Newcastle would go on to dominate the rivalry in the early years.
Over time, however, the rivalry began to even out. By the 1920s, Sunderland had established themselves as a premier club, while Newcastle had fallen into mid-table mediocrity. With both teams jostling for position in the First Division, the derby matches took on added significance. The 1908 Boxing Day clash at St. James’ Park saw a record crowd of 44,026 turn up to watch the two sides battle. In the years that followed, the numbers only grew, peaking at over 62,000 spectators for a 1939 FA Cup tie.
A Rivalry on Hold
In recent years, the Newcastle vs Sunderland derby has been put on hold as the two clubs have been playing in different leagues. Sunderland’s relegation from the Premier League in 2017 meant that they were no longer able to play against their cross-town rivals. The two sides have not met in a competitive fixture since March 2016, when Newcastle secured a 1-1 draw at St. James’ Park.
Despite the hiatus, the rivalry has persisted. In recent years, fans have clashed in street brawls and vandalized each other’s property. Police have had to intervene on several occasions to keep the peace. For many fans, the rivalry is more than just a game. It is a point of pride, a way to assert dominance over the surrounding area.
The Return of the Derby?
Despite Sunderland’s relegation, there is a chance that the Newcastle vs Sunderland derby could return in the near future. Sunderland is currently in League One, the third tier of English football, and is competing for promotion back to the Championship division. If they are successful, they could find themselves drawn against Newcastle in a cup competition, or even in the league. The possibility of the derby returning has left many fans excited.
However, others are more cautious. The rivalry between Newcastle and Sunderland is one of the most intense in world football. Even the smallest incident can quickly spiral out of control. There are concerns that the return of the derby could lead to further fan violence, or even an increase in hooliganism.
The Future of the Rivalry
The future of the Newcastle vs Sunderland derby is uncertain. Even if Sunderland is promoted, there is no guarantee that they will play against Newcastle. The two sides would need to be drawn together in a cup competition, or both achieve promotion to the same division. However, even if the derby does not return, the rivalry between the two clubs will continue. For fans of both sides, the Newcastle vs Sunderland derby is more than just a game. It is a part of their identity, a way to show pride in their community.
Conclusion
The Newcastle vs Sunderland derby is one of the fiercest rivalries in world football. For over a century, the two cities have been enemies, with each side staking claim to the title of the North-East’s greatest team. Although the rivalry has been put on hold in recent years, fans are excited at the possibility of it returning. The future of the rivalry is uncertain, but one thing is sure: the passion of the fans will never wane.[1] #SPORT