Alious
Disturbing scenes emerged in the aftermath of Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby, with shocking footage circulating online showing a large-scale fight erupting inside a crowded bar shortly after Sunderland’s victory over Newcastle United.
The fiercely contested rivalry returned to the Premier League for the first time in almost a decade, with Sunderland claiming a 1–0 win at the Stadium of Light thanks to a Nick Woltemade own goal. While celebrations erupted across Wearside, the mood turned ugly elsewhere as violence broke out at a venue showing the match.
Video clips shared widely on social media appear to show around 15 people involved in a chaotic brawl moments after the final whistle. As tempers flared, chairs and tables were thrown across the room, with terrified screams — including those of women and children — clearly audible in the background.
In the footage, one man is seen being knocked over a table before crashing to the floor after a chair is launched overhead. A woman wearing a Newcastle shirt can be seen scrambling away on her knees as the fighting surges toward her. Another individual later lifts a table and throws it in retaliation, as punches are exchanged and furniture continues to fly.
The violence eventually subsided, with some patrons fleeing the area while others retreated to safer corners of the venue. The sound of distressed children crying could still be heard as the situation calmed.
Police launch investigation
Northumbria Police confirmed they are investigating the incident. A spokesperson said officers were called to a premises on Stone Cellar Road in Washington shortly after 4pm on Sunday following reports of a disturbance involving multiple people fighting.
By the time officers arrived, many of those believed to be involved had already left the scene. Police have since launched enquiries to identify those responsible and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward, quoting reference number.
A stark contrast to stadium celebrations
The violent scenes stood in sharp contrast to the jubilant atmosphere at the Stadium of Light, where Sunderland extended their unbeaten Premier League derby run against Newcastle to 10 matches. The game itself was intense and physical, with few clear-cut chances but plenty of crunching challenges.
Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris praised his players’ maturity and composure after the match, describing the win as deserved and important for the club, fans and region. He also stressed the need to quickly refocus with another tough fixture on the horizon.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, meanwhile, apologised to supporters for his side’s display. He admitted the performance fell short, describing the defeat as painful, but insisted it would not define their season. While effort was not lacking, Howe acknowledged his team struggled to create chances and failed to deliver the required quality on the day.
As emotions continue to run high following the derby’s return, authorities are urging calm and cooperation as investigations into the off-pitch disorder continue.
Alious
