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Sunderland's Passion-Powered Comeback Stuns Middlesbrough in Tees-Wear Derby
What a night it was at the Riverside! The Tees-Wear derby delivered everything you’d expect—intensity, drama, and a thrilling finish. Sunderland pulled off a dramatic 3-2 victory over Middlesbrough, completing their first league double over their rivals since the 1961/62 season. And at the heart of it all? A passionate half-time team talk from head coach Régis Le Bris that lit a fire under his players.
Middlesbrough started the game in top gear, playing fast, fluid football that had Sunderland on the back foot early on. The home side took the lead when Hayden Hackney’s perfectly weighted pass sent Delano Burgzorg racing through on goal. A clinical right-footed strike left Sunderland’s goalkeeper with no chance. It was a worrying start for the Black Cats, and at times, their defense looked shaky under Boro’s relentless pressure.
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But Sunderland held on, and just before half-time, Dan Neil stepped up with a crucial equalizer. The midfielder, who has been attracting Premier League attention, pounced on a loose ball just outside the box and fired home—with a bit of luck, as his shot took a deflection past Mark Travers in goal. It was the moment Sunderland needed to shift momentum.
At the break, Le Bris didn’t hold back. He demanded more passion, more intensity, and a sharper focus. His words worked wonders. Sunderland came out for the second half with a renewed sense of purpose, pressing higher and playing with greater confidence. The introduction of Enzo Le Fée proved to be a masterstroke. The Roma loanee pulled the strings in midfield, creating chances and keeping Boro’s defense on edge.
Then came the moment that turned the game on its head. Le Fée played a perfectly timed through ball to Wilson Isidor, who coolly rounded the keeper and slotted the ball into the empty net. Sunderland had taken the lead, and their fans erupted in celebration. But Boro wasn’t done yet. Hackney responded with a brilliant equalizer, reminding everyone why Porto had tried to sign him in the January window.
Just when it looked like the points would be shared, Sunderland found a way to win. With minutes left on the clock, Le Fée delivered a dangerous cross into the box. Under pressure, Ryan Giles got his feet tangled and inadvertently turned the ball into his own net. A nightmare for Boro, but sheer elation for the Black Cats.
As the final whistle blew, Sunderland’s players celebrated a massive win that keeps them firmly in the hunt for automatic promotion. For Middlesbrough, it was a bitter pill to swallow—especially after such a strong start. But for Sunderland, this was a statement victory, proving they have the fight, the passion, and the quality to push for Premier League football.
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