The young Magpies fell behind to Tyrese Dyce’s first-half opener, however fought back after the break to earn three points.
Jay Turner-Cooke put United level against his former club before Adam Wilson quickly turned the game on its head before the hour-mark.
Back-to-back wins against Middlesbrough and now the Black Cats has lifted Newcastle up to 4th in the Premier League 2 Group 2 table.
Our writer Jordan Cronin was on Wearside – and here’s how he rated each Magpies player:
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1. Dan Langley - 7
Dealt with most crosses that came his way. Produced two vital late saves to ensure Newcastle claimed the bragging rights. Photo: Charlotte Tattersall
2. Ryan Barrett - 7
The right-back defended well and managed to break forward on a few occasions. Showed tidy footwork to get out of some tight situations. Photo: Frank Reid
3. Charlie Wiggett - 6
Initially struggled to cope with Joe Ryder’s pace but grew wiser as the game progressed. Vocal as ever - he played a big role as United ground out the victory. Photo: Frank Reid
4. Remi Savage - 6
Similar to Wiggett, Savage got better over the 90 minutes, particularly when Sunderland piled on the pressure late on. Looked composed in possession. Photo: Gareth Copley