Newcastle United player ratings: 'Class above' 9/10 & 'outstanding' 8.5/10 in Sunderland win

Newcastle United player ratings v Sunderland: Magpies win their first Tyne-Wear derby since August 2011.

Newcastle United finally got one over on bitter rivals Sunderland with an Alexander Isak brace and an own goal claiming a 3-0 win at the Stadium of Light.

Eddie Howe made two changes from the New Year's Day defeat at Liverpool. Kieran Trippier returned from injury and Miguel Almiron was recalled in place of Tino Livramento and Lewis Miley.

Sean Longstaff missed a hat-trick of first-half chances while Alexander Isak had a penalty appeal turned down before an own goal by Dan Ballard handed United the lead in the 35th minute.

Ballard, who was unfortunate not to concede a spot-kick for his challenge on Isak, directed Joelinton's low cross into his own net.

And less than 60 seconds after half-time, Newcastle doubled their advantage through Isak. Pierre Ekwah was robbed of possession by Almiron, who unselfishly set up Isak.

Joelinton was forced off through injury which allowed Sunderland to have a little spell but Isak put the result beyond doubt with a late penalty after Anthony Gordon was taken down by Ballard.

Here are the Newcastle player ratings from the 3-0 victory on Wearside:

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.