Sunderland fans took over Trafalgar Square in a stunning show of support for the Black Cats on Saturday.
but it was the 40,000-odd Sunderland fans, who congregated at Trafalgar Square in their thousands, who captured the attention as they illustrated their passion for the club on Saturday night.
They arrived in their thousands, drawing praise from locals for their good natured support and admiration from the wider football world for backing the team despite recent struggles. The BBC hailed it as a “takeover” of Trafalgar Square as Sunderland fans thronged the streets around the square.
And #WontBeHomeForTea was trending on social media as fans shared incredible pictures of the support.
Owners Stewart Donald and Charlie Methven and board member Juan Sartori were mobbed as they joined fans for the pre-match celebrations on a good day for the club. Barnsley dropped points to leave promotion from League One back in the club’s hands – but it will all be about trying to win the Checkatrade Trophy on Sunday as the Black Cats take on League One rivals Portsmouth.
But on Saturday it was all about the support the fans showed for the club – and the realisation of just what the club could be if they really became successful.
These were some of the best pictures and reactions from Trafalgar Square celebrations.
