Iconic piece of Black Cats history donated to Foundation

Founded in 1879, Sunderland AFC are an institution steeped in history and tradition.

For many Sunderland supporters, the love they hold for the club can be traced back to their earliest memories, time spent on the terraces, cheering on their heroes.

One particular fixture that will live long in the memory, especially for the older generation of Black Cats supporters, is the 1973 FA Cup Final where Sunderland famously defeated Leeds United 1-0 at the old Wembley Stadium – one of the biggest shocks in the history of the competition.

To this day, that famous victory still gets talked about, with fans always reminiscing about Sunderland legend Jimmy Montgomery’s unforgettable double save, and of course Ian Porterfield’s winning goal.

The final whistle sparked euphoria for manager Bob Stokoe, with his impromptu jubilant run down the pitch creating another famous FA Cup moment. What happened next has been brought back to life by artist and Sunderland supporter, Sean Duffy.

A unique painting which pictures Stokoe bursting with pride as he embraces the iconic piece of silverware, the painting also features various players as they rejoice following the full-time whistle.

Duffy has very kindly donated his painting to be used in a silent auction at the upcoming Carols of Light, with all profits raised from the artwork being donated to the Foundation of Light.

Reflecting on how the idea first come to fruition, Duffy said: “I have always wanted to create a painting that commemorated Sunderland’s historic FA Cup win back in 1973, but the opportunity or right moment didn’t seem to present itself.

“But when someone suggested that I create a painting for the 50th Anniversary – I admit that the initial idea was not conceived by me – I jumped on board and immediately ideas began to race through my mind and I was eager to get started.”

The talented artist also gave an insight into why he donated the painting to the Foundation. “Foundation of Light makes a difference in the place I was born. We live in such a fast-paced world and with so many charities that focus on foreign aid, the issues that are closest to home are sometimes overlooked, forgotten or even ignored. With the Foundation focusing on people close to home, it makes it the ideal charity.

“Being able to help the official charity of Sunderland AFC, even in the smallest way, gives me a sense of satisfaction, knowing that there is help and opportunities for the community and to see that the city of Sunderland is moving in a positive direction.”

On a personal level, Duffy revealed he was ‘immensely proud’ knowing his painting would be on display at the Carols of Light event. “As any artist will tell you, the continuous journey of learning, practising and perfecting - much like life itself – can be quite frustrating at times and filled with doubts and insecurities.

“For my artwork to be auctioned for a good cause at a big event like the Carols of Light, this can only be a rewarding and positive thing and that makes me immensely proud."

Duffy will be selling prints of his painting at the matchday Fan Zone, which is held at the Beacon of Light, with a date to be confirmed in due course.