Luke O’Nien aims 'empty seats' jibe at Newcastle United fans after St James’s Park derby drama | OneFootball

Luke O’Nien took a swipe at Newcastle United supporters over empty seats after Sunderland’s dramatic win at St James’s Park. Brian Brobbey struck in the 90th minute to complete a comeback and secure a first league double over their rivals since 2014-15.

O’Nien later posted on social media, asking why so many home seats were empty at full-time. The player said in a post that winning at St James’s Park felt special and that he had to do it the hard way after an early mistake.

Anthony Gordon had put Newcastle ahead inside nine minutes after capitalising on O’Nien’s error, and Sven Botman also hit the post as the hosts controlled much of the first half.

The game was briefly halted in the second half following reports of discriminatory abuse towards Lutsharel Geertruida. Sunderland then levelled through Chemsdine Talbi during a scramble, with Noah Sadiki going close before Brobbey settled it.

O’Nien described the sinking feeling after his mistake, said he leant on years of mindset work, and referenced mentoring young players through Inner Game Academy. He credited team-mates for backing him and called the late win unforgettable.

Several home fans departed early, a contrast he highlighted in his message. Newcastle have not won a Tyne-Wear derby at St James’s Park since 2010 and are without a league win in the fixture since 2011, with Sunderland edging ahead in overall wins after Sunday.

Source: Sunderland Echo