Newcastle United: Another year without the Tyne-Wear derby

A look at the two key matches missing from this year’s Newcastle fixture list.

Newcastle United’s title-winning campaign in the Championship last season was significant in many ways, most importantly returning the club and manager Rafa Benitez to the Premier League. But last term was also noteworthy for the Magpies’ inter-city rival, as Sunderland were relegated to the second division for 2017-18.

For the second consecutive league season, there will be no Tyne-Wear derby in the North East between the two sides.

The fixtures’ hiatus comes at an incredible moment in time, as the all-time record in the derby sits at a remarkably even number. 53 victories for each club, to go along with 49 draws. The most recent result was a 1-1 draw in March of 2016.

Matches at St. James’ Park and the Stadium of Light often produce some of the most intense and emotional scenes anywhere in world football, and is the most important to both club’s supporters.

This decade has seen excitement boil over into violence at times, including an ugly scene on the local streets in 2013. But the two sides are forever linked together in a special way.

But what of another season without the Tyne-Wear derby? Well, that may depend on your perspective.

Positives

The distinct positive for Newcastle can be seen with their performance in the English Championship last season. The Tyne-Wear derby can be a distracting and consuming affair. Without that element, the Magpies focused throughout the campaign and impressively won the division in the process.

As with some of the biggest derbies around the globe, the hype and build-up to the fixture can be intense.

Set to ensure their top-flight status beyond this season, Sunderland being out of Newcastle’s division once again may allow the club to concentrate better on their main objectives.

Negatives

The negatives are felt with the supporters and local businesses, who anticipate and look forward to the Tyne-Wear derby in a variety of ways. The matches also often produce dramatic and engaging viewing for all, from fans to neutrals.

Ultimately, it is one of the top rivalries in the sport and will be missed yet again this year.

Next: Newcastle United: Toon Takeaways from the win vs. Hearts

Newcastle United prepare for their second consecutive season without the Tyne-Wear derby and Sunderland, one of the English game’s finest traditions. It is of course still a possibility in the FA Cup or EFL Cup. But, considering the task ahead of the Magpies in the Premier League, it may not necessarily be a bad thing for them.