James Copley’s Sunderland notebook: Chris Rigg’s dad, Wilson Isidor’s message, Kyril Louis-Dreyfus’ reaction and families | OneFootball

Sunderland sealed European football for the first time since 1973-74 with a 2-1 win over Chelsea, finishing seventh in the Premier League on a day that felt bigger than the numbers. Sunderland Echo writes that the occasion was as much about families and community as football.

The Stadium of Light crackled, pitchside scenes ferocious, emotional and overwhelming. Owners Juan Sartori, Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and Maurice Louis-Dreyfus celebrated with their families, underlining the work and pressure behind the rebuild.

Family ran through the day, not least when Chris Rigg’s father hugged and shouted that his son was heading to Europe. Earlier, the columnist brought his baby son into the press box and sat him in Régis Le Bris’ chair.

Behind the noise, matchday staff kept the place feeling like home despite losing colleagues George Baker and Andy Edmunds this season. Stewards, hospitality teams, media staff and photographers all played their part.

Wilson Isidor’s late-season minutes pleased many, and in September he privately sent congratulations on a new arrival despite juggling his own family after scoring against Aston Villa. In the stands, Dan Neil and Lynden Gooch belted out Wise Men Say as qualification sank in.

It felt about people as much as progress, from those who travelled to Accrington, Gillingham, Shrewsbury and Lincoln to families who plan weekends around Sunderland. For those lucky enough to witness it, professionally or personally, Sunday was a privilege and a reminder that Sunderland feels like Sunderland again.

Source: Sunderland Echo