Newcastle United injury blow confirmed as Eddie Howe reacts to 'great' Sunderland win

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe praised his players for handling the occasion as they surged to a 3-0 win against local rivals Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.

The first Tyne-Wear derby for almost eight years saw the Magpies claim their first win over the Black Cats since August 2011. A brace for Alexander Isak and an own goal put United's name in the FA Cup fourth round draw.

"It feels great [to win]," said Howe. "I never worried about the draw I always thought it was a great draw - as long as we won it.

"We handled the occasion well, were brave with the ball and were very composed. We didn't let the crowd take over and we handled everything really well in the first half.

"I think we are still a bit off our best but it was a step in the right direction, hopefully the forward momentum can continue.

"If you look at the size of the games we've had this year this was nothing new. We've handled big occasions really well this year.

"We had to do the little bits right today and that's what happened. It keeps us in an important competition and that brings hope.

"The Premier League doesn't get easy with fixtures so this game was important."

Howe admits the only negative to emerge was Joelinton's withdrawal just after half-time. The United head coach the Brazilian picked up "a bit of knock" in the first-half.

It was Joelinton's cross that was turned home by Dan Ballard as United took the lead 35th minute. Isak then doubled his side's advantage just after half-time before Joelinton departed.

The visitors then added a third in the 90th minute when Isak scored from the penalty spot.