I always had a negative view of Sunderland. This came from an away match at Roker Park in the late 1960s on a Saturday that was New Years Eve. The pubs closed at 10:30! Apart from that we were attacked by Neanderthals coming out of the hostelry.
By comparison, my memories of Newcastle United from that era were all positive. My first trip as a sixteen year old to St James’ Park left me with memories as to how the local supporters helped me get from the Paddock to the end where the City supporters were housed.
My view of Sunderland and their supporters changed with the 2014 League Cup Final. I met a number of Sunderland fans in the hotel after the match and really bonded with them.
In fact my attitude to Sunderland changed a few weeks earlier on the night if their semifinal second leg against United. I was in Newcastle that night for a Mogwai concert with my son. After the gig ended we went to a pub for a drink and found the match was still playing extra time.
As might be expected the Newcastle locals were not backing Sunderland. However when it came to the penalty shoot-out, many were cheering the United missed penalties. It was probably the worst shoot out I have ever seen as Sunderland blundered to a 2-1 win!
Now I always wish Sunderland well and hope to see them back in the PL before long.
