Violence erupted outside St James’ Park before Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle and Sunderland. The Black Cats were visiting the home ground of their fiercest rivals for the first time in 12 years, having already clinched victory in the match at the Stadium of Light earlier in the season.
A substantial police force was deployed outside the stadium, but reports emerged shortly before the midday kick-off that some fans had become embroiled in clashes. Eyewitnesses claimed that a small contingent of travelling Sunderland supporters broke away from the police escort, entered the stadium, and joined a large crowd of home fans.
This ignited violent confrontations, with the Daily Mail reporting that CPR was administered to one individual before they were taken away.
This escort strategy mirrors the one seen at the reverse fixture in Sunderland in December last year, and is expected to be adopted by the vast majority of away fans.
Those who arrive later risk having to wait at the station until officers can facilitate a second escort, which, given the time required for the journey and the necessary safety and ticketing checks, unfortunately carries a risk of them not being in their seats in time for the 12pm kick-off.
Sunderland fans were therefore strongly encouraged to make every effort to arrive at Central Station ahead of the 10.15am start time. Once inside the station, Sunderland supporters were guided by officers and partners to the starting location.
Pictures have since emerged of fans clashing with police outside the stadium, with at least one bottle thrown at an officer who had to duck for cover.
Police were seen attempting to break up fights between the two groups of supporters before they made their way into the ground.
Once the match was underway, it was not long before the home crowd were celebrating.
A lapse in concentration while playing out from the back saw Nick Woltemade intercept a pass, deflecting it to Anthony Gordon who opened the scoring after 10 minutes.