It's difficult to see why a reasonable calibre manager would take over the vacant position at SAFC or the vacancy which will be available at NUFC some time this season no doubt.

It's probably best if Sunderland and Newcastle went down some divisions, for a few years, like Leeds, took stock and rebuilt their football clubs from the ground up, otherwise they're just going to implode.

I'm not sure that Leeds is the best example. They've been out of the top division for years now, probably averaged more than one manager a year, changed owners a number of times and are owned by a convicted felon now I think.

I remember the time that SAFC went down to the old third division. Manager got lucky finding one player who could beat players easily at that level and they went back up easily, the only time I've ever seen them win multiple matches 7-0 in a season. They even went up again despite losing the play off final. I think it was simpler in those days.

Sunderland AFC: 75 per cent of their squad is mentally weak and they're heading for the drop - Don Hutchison - Chronicle Live

I see Sunderland and Newcastle are both in positions of strength.

Holding everyone else up.

I really can't get behind the Toon again until effing Ashley and effing Wonga eff off.

Results aside, it's just effing embarrassing with that lot in charge.

Time will heal all, I suppose, but I think I'll buy a season ticket for Gateshead in the meantime.

Couldn't you buy the club?

Leeds??? They've down there forever now.

The last few weeks they've been swapping over the last spot depending who lost by more that week. NUFC excelled themselves last week.

I think the stadiums are 4th and 5th biggest in the league.

Good, and long may they stay down there.

looks like NUFC and SAFC are considered to be top of one league anyway...

The 20 fiercest rivalries in English football - by Jonathan Liew - Telegraph

The police horse on duty at the 2013 fixture has been fitted with a custom made helmet similar to the one Petr Cech of Arsenal wears.
The fan who was jailed for a year is likely now out and no word if he has a restraining order on being around Police horses.
Newcastle fan Barry Rogerson jailed for 12 months for punching police horse | Daily Mail Online

Thank you for the first half of our annual gift, we're looking forward to the next half later in the season.

I had one very happy mackem who was sad not to see the game as he was flying to Singapore. Odd as he feels as long as they win the derby relegation isn't so bad. Mind you Sam A has a lot of pressure on him to maintain his non-relegation status.

Another horse punched in Newcastle on derby day.....

Man involved in Newcastle derby day 'horse' attack pays £200 for repairs - Chronicle Live

A pity it wasn't the bleeding ref.