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Dick Advocaat praises Sunderland after 'deserved' derby victory

Image: Dick Advocaat congratulates Jermain Defoe after his Wear-Tyne heroics

Sunderland manager Dick Advocaat insisted his side thoroughly deserved their fifth straight Wear-Tyne derby win over Newcastle.

Jermain Defoe’s stunning first-half volley was enough for Sunderland to move three points clear of the Premier League relegation zone, but Advocaat felt his side’s hard work was the difference between the two sides.

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Dick Advocaat says Sunderland's work ethic and commitment were crucial to their victory in the Tyne-Wear derby.

“It was working from the beginning to the end,” Advocaat told Sky Sports.

“You could see at the end we were a little bit tired. We couldn’t control it anymore and then they started playing the high ball, but overall I think it was a well-deserved win for Sunderland.

“The way we worked, the way we played. I’m really proud of them.”

Jermain Defoe celebrates after putting Sunderland 1-0 up against Newcastle
Image: Jermain Defoe celebrates after putting Sunderland 1-0 up against Newcastle

On a weekend of special goals in the Premier League, Advocaat was full of praise for Defoe’s brilliant strike, but was quick to praise the efforts of Steven Fletcher and Connor Wickham in the 1-0 victory.

“It was a brilliant goal,” the Dutchman added. “Besides that we had plenty of opportunities to score more goals. We gave one chance away but overall I thought we deserved it.

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“Last week he (Defoe) couldn’t train because of a hamstring problem but he worked today. All three front players did really well.

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Jermain Defoe admitted that his match-winning strike against Newcastle was one of the best of his career.

“If they play well then it is much easier for the midfield. Everybody did their task and I’m really happy.”

Finally, Advocaat, taking charge of his first game at the Stadium of Light, paid tribute to the Sunderland fans and the atmosphere they created during the match.

Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe scores a magnificent volley against Newcastle
Image: Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe scores a magnificent volley against Newcastle

He said: “When we arrived on the bus the fans were really excited.

“I’ve said it before but if you can get them behind you - and that happened right from the start - that can give you an extra boost.

“The fans really were the 12th man and I’m pleased about that. If we keep playing like this we will give every opponent a very difficult time.

“We know we’ve still got three home games to go and we have to get the points there as well. Every game is important. We now start concentrating on the next one which is Crystal Palace.

“I’m really happy for the players and the fans because they deserve it.”