Disturbing footage has been released showing a large fight breaking out inside a crowded pub after Sunday’s Tyne Wear derby. Long-time rivals Sunderland and Newcastle faced off in the Premier League for the first time in almost a decade. Newcastle forward Nick Waltemade’s own goal sealed all three points for Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, much to the excitement of the home supporters.
But there were also harrowing scenes in the pub where the match was being broadcast. Trouble broke out shortly after the final whistle, and a video of about 15 people scuffling quickly went viral on social media. As the situation worsened, the cries of women and children could be heard.
After a chair is thrown into the air, a man is seen falling off the table and crashing to the ground.
A woman wearing a Newcastle jersey then fell to her knees and crawled desperately away as the crowd surged towards her.
In response, the same man grabbed a table and threw it at two other men wearing jerseys.
Chairs then fly across the room and blows are exchanged.
Eventually, the turmoil subsided.
Some patrons left the room, others moved to the other side for protection, followed by the heartbreaking cries of frightened children.
A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “We were called to a property in Stone Cellar Road, Washington, shortly after 4pm yesterday (Sunday) to reports of a disturbance. We received reports of a number of people fighting inside.”
“Upon the arrival of officers, many of those believed to have been involved left the area. The report continues to be investigated to identify those involved in the altercation.”
“If you have any information, please contact us by sending us a direct message on social media, live chat or using the ‘Report’ form feature on our website. If you are unable to contact us online, please call us on 101. Please quote reference number: 144619S/25. ”
This was in sharp contrast to the elation at Sunderland’s stadium, where the home side extended their unbeaten league run against Newcastle for a decade.
As expected, the matchup was a hard-fought affair, with limited chances and a number of bone-crushing tackles.
Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris expressed his delight on Sky Sports, saying: “I was proud and happy. It was a derby and the fans expected us to win. We deserved this win. We have matured and the players were great.”
“Tactically we were really good in the first half, just the little bits of form. Then it was a question of whether we could be more clinical in the final third. We had good control, but at times we were more patient. It’s a good level of maturity, which is very satisfying for the players and good for our fans. It’s good for the region, the club and the fans.”
“We knew beforehand it was a special game, but we have another tough challenge in Brighton in a week’s time so we have to reset quickly, so let’s go again.”
Meanwhile, Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe expressed regret at his team’s performance, saying: “It’s a terrible feeling. It’s very painful. It wasn’t our best game.”
“It’s very disappointing. I know our performance wasn’t what it should have been. But no, I don’t think it will define our season. Nothing was lost today.”
“It was a game with very few chances created by free goals, and we weren’t able to create the chances we wanted. We made an effort, but we lacked quality.”
“We’re disappointed in our creative output. We’re underachieving. It’s hard to accept.”
