Derby Day Preview: Haway The Lasses!

SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 14: Emily Scarr of Sunderland celebrates scoring her team's first goal with teammates during the Barclays Women's Super League 2 match between Sunderland and Birmingham City at Stadium of Light on September 14, 2025 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by Cameron Smith - WSL/WSL Football via Getty Images) | WSL Football via Getty Images Games like today cannot be understated. The passion, the raw undiluted energy and the cacophony of noise that erupts from the stands of Derby are like none other.

Whilst this may not be men’s football, the animosity, hatred and vitriol between Sunderland Women and Newcastle Women is just as palpable as it is with the men’s. Last weekend did more than give us three points. It reminded us of what this team looks like when it refuses to shrink.

The lasses went down to Portsmouth and produced a performance that should have blown the scoreline apart. A 1-0 win looks tight on paper, but anyone who watched that match knows it could have been seven or eight. Sunderland controlled every blade of grass.

They pressed with purpose. They moved the ball with confidence. They carved Portsmouth open again and again.