“Sunderland Fans Will Love What Former Wycombe Wanderers Boss Gareth Ainsworth Had to Say About Them After Epic Wembley Clash”
Gareth Ainsworth, the former Wycombe Wanderers manager, has praised Sunderland fans following their unforgettable clash in the 2022 League One play-off final at Wembley. Ainsworth, who was in charge of Wycombe during that tense encounter, recalled the incredible atmosphere created by Sunderland supporters that day.
Despite Wycombe’s efforts, Sunderland triumphed in the final, securing promotion back to the Championship. However, it was the passionate and unwavering support from the Sunderland fans that stood out to Ainsworth. He admitted that, even as an opposition manager, he had never experienced anything quite like the roar and energy of the Sunderland faithful at Wembley.
The respect Ainsworth has for Sunderland fans was clear as he shared his admiration for their loyalty and dedication. His words are sure to resonate with supporters, who continue to be a driving force for the team in their quest to return to the Premier League.
“Sunderland Fans Will Love What Former Wycombe Manager Gareth Ainsworth Had to Say About Their Play-Off Final Victory”
Gareth Ainsworth, the former Wycombe Wanderers manager, has spoken highly of Sunderland’s supporters after their dramatic 2022 League One play-off final victory at Wembley. Ainsworth, who was at the helm of Wycombe during that intense clash, couldn’t help but be impressed by the incredible atmosphere generated by the Black Cats’ fans, which made the occasion even more unforgettable.
That season, Sunderland finished 5th in the final League One standings under Alex Neil, while Wycombe narrowly secured 6th place. Both teams faced tough semi-finals, with Sunderland overcoming Sheffield Wednesday and Wycombe edging past MK Dons. The play-off final saw Sunderland emerge as 2-0 victors, with goals from Elliot Embleton and Ross Stewart sealing their return to the Championship.
However, despite his team’s defeat, Ainsworth acknowledged the unwavering support from Sunderland’s fans, who created an electric atmosphere at Wembley. His admiration for their passionate backing of the team only grew as he reflected on the match.
Shortly after the play-off final, Sunderland made the decision to part ways with Neil and brought in Tony Mowbray to guide them in the Championship. Meanwhile, Ainsworth would eventually leave Wycombe to take charge of QPR, before landing the Shrewsbury Town job in early November 2024.
Ainsworth’s praise of Sunderland’s fans is a testament to the special bond between the team and its supporters, with his words serving as a reminder of the impact their backing had during such a crucial moment in the club’s history.
Gareth Ainsworth Remembers Sunderland Fans at Wembley in 2022 League One Play-Off Final
Speaking recently on the Undr the Cosh podcast, former Wycombe Wanderers manager Gareth Ainsworth reflected on the unforgettable atmosphere created by Sunderland fans during the 2022 League One play-off final at Wembley.
Ainsworth, who was in the dugout for Wycombe during the match, recalled the overwhelming noise and energy from Sunderland supporters, which made the final a truly special occasion, despite his side’s 2-0 defeat. Goals from Elliot Embleton and Ross Stewart sealed Sunderland’s victory, securing their return to the Championship after a four-year absence.
In his conversation, Ainsworth shared how he was struck by the sheer passion of the Sunderland fans, acknowledging that the atmosphere at Wembley was unlike anything he had experienced before. Their unwavering support, even in the face of the defeat, left a lasting impression on the 51-year-old.
The match was a key moment in both teams’ seasons, with Sunderland’s promotion marking a major achievement under Alex Neil. Shortly after the final, however, Neil would leave the club and be replaced by Tony Mowbray, while Ainsworth would eventually depart Wycombe to take charge of QPR.
In November 2024, Ainsworth secured a new managerial role at Shrewsbury Town, but his fond memories of that day at Wembley—especially the incredible Sunderland fanbase—are something he’ll likely carry with him throughout his career.
Gareth Ainsworth Remembers Sunderland Fans at Wembley in 2022 League One Play-Off Final
Speaking recently on the Undr the Cosh podcast, former Wycombe Wanderers manager Gareth Ainsworth reflected on the unforgettable atmosphere at Wembley during the 2022 League One play-off final, particularly the impact of Sunderland’s passionate supporters.
Ainsworth, who was in charge of Wycombe during the match, spoke in awe about the noise that greeted Sunderland’s opening goal by Elliot Embleton in the 12th minute. “What a team they are, Sunderland. And when that goal went in, that first goal… I’ve never heard a sound like it,” he recalled.
With an official attendance of 72,333, it was clear that Sunderland’s fanbase dominated the stadium that day, with Ainsworth noting, “90,000, 95,000 [fans] there. There must have been 89,000 Sunderland there because it was unbelievable, that noise.”
In reality, Sunderland fans made up a remarkable 43,960 of the total attendance, thanks to an overwhelming demand for tickets. This display of support helped create a once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere at Wembley, as Sunderland clinched promotion to the Championship with a 2-0 win over Wycombe, thanks to Embleton’s goal and Ross Stewart’s second.
Ainsworth, despite his side’s defeat, couldn’t help but marvel at the fervor of Sunderland’s faithful, acknowledging it was an experience he would never forget.
Sunderland’s Strong Support Continues: Highest Average Attendance in the League and a Sold-Out Trip to Millwall
Sunderland’s loyal fanbase has once again demonstrated their unwavering support this season, with the club currently boasting the highest average home attendance in the league. In their recent 2-2 draw with Coventry City at the Stadium of Light, 43,374 fans were present to witness a dramatic two-goal comeback from the Sky Blues. Despite the draw, the atmosphere was electric, reflecting the dedication of the Black Cats faithful.
Sunderland’s average home attendance this season stands at an impressive 41,102, beating Leeds United by nearly 5,000 in second place. This shows just how strong the fan support is at the Stadium of Light, where Regis Le Bris has been backed enthusiastically as he leads the team.
The passion of Sunderland’s supporters extends beyond the home ground as well. Despite a demanding 10-hour round trip, Sunderland fans have sold out the club’s upcoming away fixture against Millwall this weekend. This level of commitment highlights the relentless support the Black Cats receive from their fanbase, whether home or away.
Ainsworth’s recent comments on the incredible noise from Sunderland fans at Wembley will certainly resonate with the supporters, who remain one of the most vocal and passionate groups in English football. With the season still unfolding, Sunderland fans could yet find themselves in another play-off final, and with their continued support, the team will no doubt feel bolstered by their incredible following.