A soccer membership has apologised to its followers after a stadium bar was adorned within the colors of its arch-rivals, days earlier than the groups meet within the FA Cup.
Bosses at Sunderland AFC have admitted the membership made a “serious error in judgement” after banners saying “Keep the Black and White Flying High” and “We are United” have been hung on the Stadium of Light, forward of Saturday’s third-round tie in opposition to Newcastle.
A message studying “Ha’way the lads” in Sunderland purple was changed with the Geordie spelling “Howay” in black.
Sunderland play in purple and white; Newcastle in black and white.
In a press release on its web site, the Championship membership stated sorry to followers for “the understandable concern they have fairly voiced” and stated an “immediate review” had been ordered.
It additionally stated the Black Cats Bar, which can function a company hospitality space for visiting followers, could be returned to its earlier state earlier than the lunchtime kick-off.
The Newcastle United Supporters’ Club posted footage of the Magpies branding on X, joking they “can’t fault the hospitality of our hosts this weekend”.
A later put up stated: “Unfortunately the signage is coming down but the damage has already been done.”
The supporters’ membership additionally claimed Sunderland proprietor Kyril Louis-Dreyfus was “fully aware of the plans” and has been “left surprised” on the backlash.
Tensions have been already operating excessive amongst Black Cats followers after some season ticket holders have been moved from their typical seats to accommodate 6,000 travelling Magpies supporters within the stadium’s North Stand.
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Long-standing fanzine A Love Supreme stated on X: “At a complete loss for words. What on earth are the club doing?!?!?!
“Don’t assume the membership realise how a lot of a mistake adorning the stadium with Newcastle stuff is. Any goodwill they’ve developed from the outcomes on the pitch/getting us again into the Championship may genuinely be utterly gone particularly if we lose on Saturday.”
On Instagram, a fan referred to as it “disgusting” and stated he’d “never been so angry and disappointed with the club”.
“Disgrace” was a well-liked response, with customers telling bosses they “should be ashamed”.
The eagerly-anticipated fixture would be the first time the northeast neighbours have met since a 1-1 Premier League draw at St James’ Park in March 2016.
Sunderland had received every of the earlier six encounters.
Source: information.sky.com”