Alan Shearer delivered a clear verdict with his criticism of Newcastle United's second-half display against Sunderland, labelling it as "pathetic" and "weak" after a 2-1 loss for his old side.

Eddie Howe's team entered the half-time interval with a 1-0 advantage thanks to Anthony Gordon's strike in the 10th minute and were the superior side, with Sunderland struggling to offer much threat on Aaron Ramsdale's goal.

However, the Black Cats put in an improved performance in the second half and took control of the game. Sunderland penned Newcastle back into their own half and secured a well-deserved equaliser in the 57th minute, as Chemsdine Talbi slotted home from close range following a blocked attempt by Brian Brobbey.

Despite Regis Le Bris' side continuing to dictate the match, Newcastle believed they had regained the lead when Malick Thiaw headed past goalkeeper Melker Ellborg. However, referee Anthony Taylor ruled out the goal, judging that Jacob Murphy was offside and obstructing Ellborg.

• Newcastle and Sunderland fans clash in violent scenes minutes before kick-off

• Sunderland complete Tyne-Wear derby double over Newcastle as Brian Brobbey hits last-gasp winner

In the end, it was Sunderland who clinched the match 2-1, with Brobbey scoring the decisive goal in the 90th minute. The Dutch international found the net on his second attempt after his initial shot was saved, reports ChronicleLive.

Given Sunderland's 2.45 expected goals (xG) compared to Newcastle's 1.45, along with more shots, shots on target and significant opportunities, the statistics suggest the Black Cats were deserving winners.

From Newcastle's viewpoint, there was a stark difference in performance between the first and second halves, and Magpies icon Shearer not holding back with his verdict on social media.

In a post on X, a furious Shearer wrote: "A pathetic, weak, lazy, limp second half from Newcastle again #NEWSUN."

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Jamie Carragher, meanwhile, shared his thoughts and commended Sunderland for their second-half showing.

"[It is] 10 years since they have played at St James' Park in the Premier League, and Newcastle just cannot beat Sunderland," the former Liverpool defender told Sky Sports.

"What a moment for them, probably never dreamed in these last four or five years that they could beat Newcastle. Got up surprising through the play-offs last season, and to do the double over their biggest rivals, one of the best moments their young fans will remember."

The victory for Sunderland has lifted them above Newcastle in the Premier League standings and into 11th, now sitting just three points adrift of seventh-placed Brentford in the battle for a European place.

Sunderland's next fixture sees them face Tottenham in three weeks' time on Sunday, April 12, whilst Newcastle make the trip to Crystal Palace on the same day.

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