Sunderland fans spotted holding their heads after being struck by bottles thrown by Newcastle fans as supporters clash ahead of derby day

Sunderland and Newcastle fans clashed in ugly scenes ahead of the Tyne-Wear derby on Sunday morning.

During the 12pm kick-off, both sets of fans became involved in the fight as fights broke out just outside St James’ Park.

In one video, Sunderland fans can be seen holding their heads after being hit by thrown bottles as they made their way towards the stadium amid clashes.

Daily Mail Sport’s CRAIG HOPE reported that one fan even performed CPR before being taken away by emergency services, although it is unclear whether this was tension-related.

Posting on X, he said: ‘We are fighting outside St James’ Park. One fan showed up badly. CPR was administered before he was taken away. ‘It’s not good.’

The coach driving the Sunderland players was also pelted with bottles as he tried to leave the area, and each bottle hitting the vehicle was greeted with cheers.

The clashes took place just outside St James’ Park before the match kicked off at 12pm.

Police moved to bring the situation under control ahead of the first Tyne-Wear derby at St James’ Park since 2016

Reports suggested that the windshield of the bus was left with a large crack.

The Telegraph reported that the chaos broke out after a group of Sunderland fans decided to walk to the stadium without a police escort.

The majority of Sunderland fans traveled from Newcastle railway station to the stadium with Northumbria Police, who did a largely good job of keeping both groups of fans separate.

Newcastle fans had gathered outside the Sandman Hotel just outside the ground, creating a raucous atmosphere with plenty of chanting as well as the lighting of torches.

The first group of Sunderland fans managed to pass without any problems, although cans, bottles and drinks were thrown at them as they passed.

But he had no such chance after a second group of fans unfurled the Sunderland flag as they passed by, throwing punches and throwing missiles.

The Sunderland flag was taken down by home fans and police moved quickly to separate rival groups clashing with authorities.

Videos of the incident showed chaotic scenes with sirens blaring in the background as police raced around.

Adding to the drama, the road appeared to still be open to the public as some cars slowly passed by.

Sirens could be heard blaring in the background as tensions increased on Sunday morning.

Northumbria Police urge fans to exercise caution to ensure match goes ‘uneventful’

The two teams met at St James’ Park for the first time since 2016 and Northumbria Police urged fans to take caution to ensure the game proceeds ‘without incident’.

Chief Inspector Mark Hall said: ‘We are aware of and appreciate the widespread excitement for the upcoming match between Newcastle United and Sunderland.

‘Football fans in our region are renowned for being some of the most passionate in the country.

‘The return of this fixture was highly anticipated among fans of both teams.

‘Our role is to help ensure that everyone involved can enjoy the experience safely and that disruption to other members of the public is kept to a minimum.’

Sunderland won the reverse fixture 1-0 in the match, which passed without any major incidents among the fans.

Daily Mail Sports Northumbria Police was contacted for comment following the ugly scenes.

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