Sunderland were unable to complete the double over their arch rivals as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Newcastle United on Sunday.

It was a disappointing result for Sunderland who were the better team throughout the match as Newcastle struggled to put up a fight at St James Park. Kieran Richardson went closest to breaking the deadlock early in the game when his curling free kick smashed against the bar with keeper Steve Harper comfortably beaten.

Kenwyne Jones managed to latch on to the rebound but his effort was cleared off the line by a last ditch attempt by new signing Kevin Nolan. At the other end Andy Carroll managed to hit the post with his looping header off Jose Enrique's cross easily beating Marton Fulop.

The visitors took a deserved lead on the half hour mark when Dean Whitehead found Djibril Cisse with a brilliant pass and the French striker made no mistake from close range to put his side in front. Carroll had a chance to equalize before the half time whistle but shot narrowly over the bar.

Newcastle stepped up the pressure in the second half, creating a number of chances. The hosts were finally rewarded for their efforts in the 68th minute when Steven Taylor was fouled inside the area by Steed Malbranque and Shola Ameobi coolly slotted home the penalty to collect a point for his side.