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Newcastle and Sunderland fans clash in violent scenes minutes before kick-off
Mar 22 2026 12:11 · By Ben Husband/Sports News Editor · 33 Reads
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There were scenes of violence outside St James’ Park before Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle and Sunderland .
The Black Cats were visiting the home of their most fierce rivals for the first time in 12 years, having already won the game at the Stadium of the Light.
There was a heavy police presence outside the stadium, but reports surfaced shortly before the midday kick off that some supporters were caught up in skirmishes.
Eyewitnesses claimed that a small number of travelling Sunderland fans broke away from the police escort into the stadium and into a huge group of home fans. That sparked violent confrontations, with the Daily Mail claiming CPR was administered to one individual before being taken away.
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