Jermain Defoe admitted his superb volley in Sunderland's 1-0 win over Newcastle United on Sunday was one of his best-ever goals.

The 32-year old hit a stunning left-footed effort from Steven Fletcher's knockdown header just outside the area on the stroke of half-time which eventually was enough for a fifth-straight derby triumph for the Black Cats.

After the victory, Defoe spoke of his emotions running wild after firing home the brilliant winner which could go a long way to keeping the Wearside club in the Premier League.

"It was an unbelievable feeling when it went in," said Defoe on Sky Sports. "I was very emotional for some reason, as everyone wanted the three points so badly.

"It's one of my best. Even a tap-in would be massive in a game like this."

Defoe added: "The lads have been telling me what today would be like, with the atmosphere, and it was amazing. We've beaten them for a fifth time in a row and what a feeling.

"As the ball was dropping I was just concentrating on the strike. During the week I've done a lot of shooting and as soon as it left my foot I knew it was in."

The win allowed Sunderland to move up to 15th spot on the table, three points clear of the drop zone with seven fixtures remaining.