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

Sunderland’s 2-1 win over Chelsea sealed seventh place in the Premier League and first European football since 1973-74, a day shaped by family and community at the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland Echo writes that the occasion felt emotional as well as historic, with owners Juan Sartori, Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and Maurice Louis-Dreyfus celebrating alongside their families.

Amid the pitchside bedlam, Chris Rigg’s dad hugged the reporter and shouted, 'My boy is going to Europe!', despite being a Newcastle United supporter.

Family framed the day. The writer’s first child, George, was born in September, and before kick-off he visited the press box and sat in Régis Le Bris’ chair.

Behind the scenes, Sunderland still felt like a family club. Matchday staff mourned George Baker and Andy Edmunds this season, yet kept greeting supporters with warmth, humour and professionalism.

Their kindness on Sunday gave George his first real glimpse of the ground and turned a milestone for the club into a treasured family memory.

It was also pleasing to see Wilson Isidor earn more minutes late on. After George’s birth he sent congratulations, having just scored against Aston Villa, and he had another child of his own.

In the stands, Dan Neil and Lynden Gooch joined in Wise Men Say as Europe was secured, two Sunderland-mad players celebrating with friends and family. It was a moment for the people, including those who kept going to Accrington, Gillingham, Shrewsbury and Lincoln.

Source: Sunderland Echo