Newcastle United Women Set Attendance Record in Thrilling Derby Win
In a remarkable display of support and enthusiasm for women’s football, Newcastle United‘s women’s team shattered the Women’s Championship attendance record on Sunday. The Tyneside derby against Sunderland drew an astonishing 38,502 fans, creating an electric atmosphere at the stadium.
This impressive turnout easily eclipsed the previous league record of 15,387, which was set during the reverse fixture between these two fierce rivals back in October at the Stadium of Light. The passion and dedication of the fans were on full display, as they turned out in droves to support their team.
Not only did this match set a new league record, but it also marked a club record attendance for Newcastle United. The previous record was 28,565, achieved during their FA Cup clash against Burnley in November 2022. The fans’ commitment to supporting their team, regardless of the competition, is truly commendable.
Before the match kicked off, the excitement was palpable as club CEO Darren Eales and Bob Moncur, who famously captained the club to their Fairs Cup triumph in 1969, paraded the Carabao Cup trophy around the stadium. This trophy was recently won by the men’s side, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
The match itself was a tightly contested affair, with Newcastle emerging victorious thanks to a 78th-minute winner from Shania Hayles. Her goal secured a 1-0 win for the hosts, allowing Newcastle to climb above Sunderland into sixth place in the standings.
After the match, Hayles expressed her amazement at the incredible support from the fans. “I didn’t actually realise how many people were here and when I was warming up I saw it. It is just amazing how many fans we get down here,” she said in an interview to BBC post-match. “I’ve never played in front of that many fans, let alone scored. At Kingston Park they show up whether it is raining or sunny so to do it today for them, it means everything to me,” she added.
Key Highlights from the Match
- Record-breaking attendance of 38,502 fans.
- Newcastle United Women’s team climbs to sixth place.
- Shania Hayles scores the decisive goal in the 78th minute.
- Pre-match parade of the Carabao Cup trophy by club legends.
The significance of this record-breaking attendance cannot be overstated. It highlights the growing popularity and support for women’s football, not just in Newcastle but across the country. The fans’ unwavering support is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and the club as a whole.
As the Women’s Championship continues to grow, events like these serve as a reminder of the potential and excitement that women’s football can bring. The passion and energy displayed by the fans at this match are sure to inspire future generations of players and supporters alike.
With this victory, Newcastle United’s women’s team has not only secured a crucial win but also set a new standard for what can be achieved in terms of fan engagement and support. The future looks bright for women’s football, and this record-breaking match is a significant step forward in that journey.
Originally Written by: ESPN
