Newcastle, who gave a debut to new signing Kevin Nolan, were ragged in a first half dominated by their north east rivals and trailed to a goal by Cisse after 32 minutes.

Shola Ameobi's second-half penalty earned them a 1-1 draw, a result that left both clubs mired in relegation trouble.

The home side, without a win this year, showed plenty of spirit after the break although they were fortunate to be awarded a penalty after 69 minutes when Sunderland's Steed Malbranque was adjudged to have bundled over Steven Taylor.

Photographs: Reuters