[2] But as public interest in football began to grow in the town in 1880s, the club took the opportunity to begin charging spectators an entrance fee.
As such, attendance records begin to appear from Sunderland's fifth home (Abbs Field).
Sunderland's sixth home at Newcastle Road could be considered the first 'proper' stadium; with outer walls, grandstands, and capacity for around 15,000 spectators, it was, at the time, regarded as the finest ground in the North East of England.
[3] Three of Sunderland grounds have hosted full England international matches.
(vs. Ferryhill)[4] (vs. Elswick Leather Works)[4] (vs. Bishop Middleham)[4] (vs. District XI)[4]