On this day in 1979 Sunderland beat Newcastle 4-1 at St James’ Park with Gary Rowell famously bagging a hat trick.
It’s one of many famous derby day victories for those on Wearside: Billy Elliott’s promotion-hunting Lads battered the Mags in their own backyard. Only five minutes into the game Rowell netted the first, when he ghosted between the Magpies centre backs and slotted it in. Newcastle manager Billy McGarry commented on that saying “You don’t see him, then suddenly he comes from nowhere and knocks it in.”
The Black Cats continued to dominate the game and the second goal came for Rowell. A perfect ball over the top from Kevin Arnott found Gary, who put it past Steve Hardwick (who would later have a brief loan spell at SAFC). It was a really well worked goal. The Lads were 2-0 up at half time, and things were looking great.
In the second half, the Toon pulled one back when John Connolly scored a headed goal from a Nigel Walker set piece. However, they gave a penalty away 12 minutes later and things only got better for the Lads. Gary Rowell stepped up and made it 3-1 to Sunderland, the away end erupted. It was never in doubt really, due to the boyhood Sunderland fan's magnificent penalty record. He missed only one of 22 competitive penalties he took for the club.
Elliott’s side completely dominated McGarry’s for most of the game, and this led to another Sunderland goal. Gary Rowell assisted Wayne Entwistle who put the nail in the Magpie's coffin.
Famously, Gary spoke about the game at a later date: "When we hit the fourth, I had a chat with Kevin Arnott about whether to try for a fifth or just to take the piss. We decided to take the piss."
The celebrations continued long into the night on Wearside. It was one of the best derby day victories ever. Lord Rowell of Seaham had almost single-handedly won the game for the Lads.
