A sea of Newcastle fans outside St James's are being held back by police officers in riot gear, to keep them separated from Sunderland fans.Reuters
Federica Bedendo
North East and Cumbria
Three people were arrested as part of operations during the Tyne-Wear derby, which police said passed "largely without incident".
Newcastle United lost 2-1 to Sunderland on home turf at St James' Park, their second Premier League defeat to the Black Cats this season.
Northumbria Police said there was an increased police presence in the city to ensure safety, and thanked fans of both clubs "who adhered to the provisions in place".
The force said it was aware of videos circulating on social media showing supporters goading one another before kick-off. The match was also briefly stopped following reports of racial abuse towards Sunderland defender Lutsharel Geertruida.
"The policing operation around the match between Newcastle United FC and Sunderland AFC passed largely without incident" Ch Supt Mark Hall said.
He added officers had also responded to a medical emergency on Gallowgate before the match.
"The man is currently in a stable condition, and we wish him well in his ongoing recovery," Ch Supt Hall said.
Sunderland's Chemsdine Talbi and Granit Xhaka celebrate after the match on the pitch at St James in Newcastle. The two are wearing their match kit, a blue top and white shorts, and are both jumping in the air, with their arms up and they are smiling towards the dan which are out of shot.Reuters
Newcastle United said it will investigate the report of racial abuse towards Geertruida from someone in the crowd, which saw the match paused.
A team spokesman said: "Our stance is clear - we do not tolerate discrimination of any form."
A spokesman for Sunderland AFC said they expected those responsible to be identified and held accountable.
"We stand with Lutsharel, who has our complete backing, and we commend him for displaying bravery and leadership by reporting this incident to the match officials," they said.
The Premier League said the incident would be fully investigated, while a Northumbria Police spokesperson said the force was "aware of a report of discriminatory abuse".
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