Match Report: Magpies claim derby-day victory in front of record-breaking crowd

Newcastle United Women 1 Sunderland Women 0

Shania Hayles’ late goal ensured Newcastle United Women did the double over Sunderland Women in front of a record-breaking crowd of 38,502 at St James’ Park.  

Both sides came into Sunday’s derby clash looking to bounce back from defeat in their previous outing, as The Magpies were beaten by Durham, whereas Sunderland lost to Portsmouth. 

It was a fast start from the home team, and just two minutes in they had an early chance as Beth Lumsden was played through on goal, but her left-footed shot was well-saved by Demi Lambourne.   

Emily Scarr tried to respond at the other end, but her shot wasn’t enough to trouble Claudia Moan. 

Fifteen minutes later, Rachel Furness was on the receiving end of a header and troubled Lambourne, whose punch couldn’t get the ball clear, as the ball went out for a corner. Demi Stokes tried to get across from it, but her shot went wide of the post.  

Before half-time, the Magpies had one last chance to take the lead as Furness broke through the Sunderland midfield, but her effort was straight at Lambourne.  

After a quiet second half, Newcastle eventually found a breakthrough, as Murphy carried the ball into the Sunderland half and laid it off for Hayles who slotted it past Lambourne at the Gallowgate End. 

There were four nervous minutes of injury time which saw Newcastle manager Becky Langley sent off, but the Magpies held on for a valuable win in the Tyne-Wear derby.