Toon win derby against bitter rivals Sunderland

By Peter Donnelly
September 21 2002

Newcastle United got back to winning ways on Saturday afternoon with a win against local rivals Sunderland, gaining pride aswell as points at St. James' Park. Craig Bellamy set the ball rolling within the first minute and Alan Shearer finished the game off later on in the half.

It was a dream start for United, as St. James' Park went ecstatic as early as 90 seconds. Alan Shearer provided high class hold up play when he turned Bjorkland then set the on rushing Dyer away. Dyer played an early ball to Bellamy who had found lots of space on the inside left position, with Sunderland pushing up. Our Welsh wippit progressed and cooly finished to spark wild celebrations among the terraces.

On 38 minutes McAteer gave away a sloppy pass to Dyer on the edge of the box, who's miss control led to Shearer who was then brought down by McAteer himself. Shearer was always going to take this one, and he did with pleasure. Big Al rammed it home, through the wall, to put United in a comfortable 2-0 lead.

Rest of the match report to follow soon...