Source:
REUTERS/CARL RECINE
[Saba
Sports News] The highly anticipated “Tyne Derby” took place in the
third round of the FA Cup, with Sunderland hosting Newcastle United. This
marked the first derby between the two teams in eight years. To ensure the
safety and convenience of the fans, Newcastle reportedly spent £150,000 to rent
120 buses, which were used to transport 6,000 fans to the Stadium of Light.
Local police issued a warning to Newcastle fans, advising them not to take
public transportation to Sunderland’s home games. Only fans who arrived at the
stadium were able to obtain tickets, and advance purchases were not allowed.
These measures were agreed upon by the police and Sunderland, ensuring that
visiting team fans had sufficient ticket allocation. Prior to the game,
tensions were already high in Sunderland, with criticism aimed at the Black Cat
pub for displaying a Newcastle banner. The excitement surrounding the game was
palpable, and fans from both sides were eagerly looking forward to the match.