The Black Cats and the Magpies’ Under-21s meet in the Checkatrade Trophy in January but, with adult ticket prices at £15, not everyone is happy.
There has already been one huge local derby in the Checkatrade Trophy this season and now we’re set for another one.
Following Port Vale’s 4-0 win over Stoke City’s Under-21s, the last 16 will bring together Sunderland’s senior side against Newcastle United’s Under-21s.
The Black Cats finished top of their group ahead of Stoke’s U21s, Carlisle and Morecambe, before beating Notts County in the second round.
Newcastle’s reserve side also topped the standings in their group, and then overcame Macclesfield on penalties to reach the third round.
The Black Cats and the Magpies regularly contested the Tyne-Wear derby in the Premier League in previous years, but a competitive fixture between the two hasn’t taken place for more than two years.
On Wednesday, Sunderland’s official website confirmed that the tie at the Stadium of Light is set to take place on Tuesday 8 January, with a 7:45pm kickoff.
Given the big occasion and potential fiery nature of the fixture, the Black Cats had several terms and conditions required to buy tickets, such as a valid customer number and purchasing history recorded on their database.
In addition, the League One outfit said there is a purchase limit of four tickets per fan in place, and the fixture is ticket-only, with no sales on the day and no open cash turnstiles.
What appeared to rile some Sunderland fans, however, is the ticket price, set at £15 for adults, and some took to Twitter to voice their opinions:
Some, however, suggested that the price increase is likely due to the added costs of policing such a fixture:
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
