Racist abuse during the Tyne–Wear derby paused the match; police say a 45-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated offence. Northumbria Police oversee Northumberland and Tyne & Wear.
During a March 22 game at St. James’ Park, Sunderland and Newcastle players reported racial abuse from the crowd. The incident led to a three-minute stoppage, and a man from Gateshead was arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence. The game was resumed and Sunderland won 2-1.