Sunderland Vs Newcastle United: Player Ratings

Keiren Westwood - 7

Never really called into making a big save and no chance with the goal. Deserves plenty of credit for the command of his box though which did plenty to help relieve mounting pressure.

Right Back - 4

Meh. Points deducted for being a parasite, but put in a very commendable shift. Certainly did nowt wrong.

Andrea Dossena - 7

Gave an excellent account of himself considering how little football he has played. Looked like an actual proper left back, and knows how to wear a beard.

John O'Shea - 7

Looked more comfortable next to his mate Carlos and defended well with assurance.

Carlos Cuellar - 7

Perhaps the biggest surprise name on the team sheet, but most certainly played his part.

Seb Larsson - 7

Played more towards the right than in recent times, though still not really in full winger mode. Loads of running and his eyes simply shine with incandescent radiance when he is stuffing the mags, the kind of which burns deep down into one's very soul.

Lee Cattermole - 8

Everything that is brilliant about him - the energy, the leadership, the relentless refusal to be denied his say - without any of the bad. Superb.

Jack Colback - 9

Simply the best player on the pitch.

Adam Johnson - 7

This was Johnson in a microcosm. Rarely looked especially involved, yet created.

Steven Fletcher - 8

A goal, and his quick thinking brought about the winner. Never leave us again.

Jozy Altidore - 8

Others grabbed the headlines but Altidore's relentless tenderising of the Newcastle centre halves played a massive part in this win.

Fabio Borini - 8

Wrote himself into mackem folklore by invoking the spirit of Kieran to rocket home a derby winner. What a strike too. Was lively from the moment he came on.

Ki Sung-Yueng - 7

Picked up where the tiring Cattermole left off. Involved in winner.

Ondrej Celustka - 7

Did little wrong after being thrust into a difficult situation.

Man Of The Match: Jack Colback

Up against the much-heralded Yohan Cabaye, Colback simply bossed the midfield. He was the outstanding player on show, and with his newly found physical strength - one remnant of the Di Canio era for which we can be thankful - he proved unequivocally that he has loads to offer in his favoured position.

We'll have even more match reaction over the coming days HERE in our Match Stream.