On this day, April 14th 2013, Sunderland travelled to rivals Newcastle United needing a win to aid their Premier League survival. What transpired was a one-sided victory and new manager Paulo Di Canio celebrating on his knees. The victory not only slightly eased the Black Cats relegation worries but also brought the Magpies into the scrap at the bottom of the table.
On This Day: Newcastle 0-3 Sunderland, Paulo Di Canio Celebrates on His Knees
Di Canio’s Second Game in Charge
New boss Paulo Di Canio, who took over from Martin O’Neill, was coming into this game on the back of a narrow and much-improved display at Chelsea. However, few would have predicted what would happen on this day.
Di Canio was an odd choice as new manager seeing as the club were in a relegation battle. However, with the result that would come on this day, it helped him keep the Black Cats in the Premier League.
Black Cats Take the Lead
From the first whistle, the away team looked the more confident. Di Canio on the touchline orchestrating every move of his players. When Stephane Sessegnon drilled in a low shot from outside of the area, Di Canio celebrated like he was either on the pitch or in with the delighted Sunderland supporters.
Lead Extended, Di Canio Celebrates
When Sunderland extended their lead in the second half, the new Black Cats manager created a moment that would live long in the memory of football supporters. Di Canio ran down the touchline and slid along the grass on his knees.
“If I ruin my trousers, I would like to lose them every weekend,’ he said. ‘I wanted to go far but I am too old now and I can only go 20 yards. I just wanted to share the moment with my fans.’
Vaughan Stunner Completes a Great Day
A fantastic day for Wearside was complete on 82 minutes. David Vaughan unleashed a stunning shot from the corner of the box that swerved into the top corner. This time Di Canio had no time to slide down the touchline as he was mobbed by players and staff alike. It was Sunderland’s first victory at Newcastle in 13 years and they did it in style.
Warriors
After the game Di Canio couldn’t hide his delight:
“They were warriors. You can’t be more proud than this. They did everything, they gave everything, they left all of their energy on the field. “In terms of the result for this area, it is an incredible step. But in terms of the table, it is only a small step to try and get this club out of the relegation zone. We have to be intelligent because the main job is not done.”
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