The Tyne-Wear derby heats up as Newcastle United FC welcomes their local rivals, Sunderland AFC, to St. James' Park. Currently, Newcastle United are riding a four-match unbeaten streak, while Sunderland aim to break their three-match losing run. Key to a Sunderland victory will be the performances of their striker, Ellis Simms, and their midfield dynamo, Alex Mighten, as they face off against a resurgent Newcastle defence led by Sven Botman.