The Black Cats had made their ground a fortress in the Premier League this season, but the decisive moment arrived when Van Dijk rose highest to head home and ultimately settle a tight contest. It meant Régis Le Bris’ side suffered their first home league defeat of the campaign and their first at the Stadium of Light since the 1-0 loss to Queens Park Rangers in the Championship last May.
Yet if the result stung, the reaction in the stands told its own story. From the Roker End to the Jimmy Montgomery Stand, supporters remained defiant and vocal long after the final whistle. Scarves were held aloft, songs rang out and there was applause for the players as they made their way around the pitch.
Here, we bring you 151 of the best photos capturing the passion, pride and unwavering backing of Sunderland fans despite defeat against Liverpool:
Sunderland fans pictured at the Stadium of Light during the Black Cats' 1-0 loss to Premier League champions Liverpool. Photo by Chris Fryatt.
1. Sunderland fans
Sunderland fans pictured at the Stadium of Light during the Black Cats' 1-0 loss to Premier League champions Liverpool. Photo by Chris Fryatt. | Sunderland fans pictured at the Stadium of Light during the Black Cats' 1-0 loss to Premier League champions Liverpool. Photo by Chris Fryatt.
Sunderland fans pictured at the Stadium of Light during the Black Cats' 1-0 loss to Premier League champions Liverpool. Photo by Chris Fryatt.
2. Sunderland fans
Sunderland fans pictured at the Stadium of Light during the Black Cats' 1-0 loss to Premier League champions Liverpool. Photo by Chris Fryatt. | Sunderland fans pictured at the Stadium of Light during the Black Cats' 1-0 loss to Premier League champions Liverpool. Photo by Chris Fryatt.
Sunderland fans pictured at the Stadium of Light during the Black Cats' 1-0 loss to Premier League champions Liverpool. Photo by Chris Fryatt.
3. Sunderland fans
Sunderland fans pictured at the Stadium of Light during the Black Cats' 1-0 loss to Premier League champions Liverpool. Photo by Chris Fryatt. | Sunderland fans pictured at the Stadium of Light during the Black Cats' 1-0 loss to Premier League champions Liverpool. Photo by Chris Fryatt.
Sunderland fans pictured at the Stadium of Light during the Black Cats' 1-0 loss to Premier League champions Liverpool. Photo by Chris Fryatt.
4. Sunderland fans
Sunderland fans pictured at the Stadium of Light during the Black Cats' 1-0 loss to Premier League champions Liverpool. Photo by Chris Fryatt. | Sunderland fans pictured at the Stadium of Light during the Black Cats' 1-0 loss to Premier League champions Liverpool. Photo by Chris Fryatt.