#INSERT type:image caption:Defoe's effort flies in to settle the derby against Newcastle in spectacular fashion. END#
Sunderland goal hero Jermain Defoe said the stunning volley that decided Sunday's home derby against Newcastle was "one of my best" but added: "Even a tap-in would be massive in a game like this."
The former Tottenham striker settled the match in first-half injury-time when he smashed a spectacular left-footed effort beyond Tim Krul after Steven Fletcher had headed on a long kick from keeper Costel Pantilimon.
Defoe, who looked emotional as the players came off at half-time, told Sky Sports: "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. It was an unbelievable feeling. I was very emotional for some reason, as everyone wanted the three points so badly.
"I tried to blank it out, because if you think about the pressure too much you get tense and can't perform.
"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.
"Hopefully the fans can be happy and we can kick on."
Manager Dick Advocaat also hailed the goal, saying it was "so nice it must count for two."
He said: "It [the game plan] was working from the beginning to the end. Overall, it was a well-deserved win, and I am very proud of them.
"It was a brilliant goal, and beside that we had more opportunities to score more goals. We pressurised them from the start and didn't give many chances away. It was such a nice goal it has to count for two."
He praised the contribution of his front three -- Defoe, Fletcher and Connor Wickham -- saying: "It helps the midfield when the strikers work hard.
"Since I arrived the fans have been excited, and if you can get them behind you it gives you an extra boost.
"We have three home games to go and we must get points there as well. Now we concentrate on Crystal Palace [at home on Saturday]. I am really happy for the players and the fans."
