St. James' Park was packed, everything was black-and-white, and there was a lot of noise - but there was no game

What they really, really love at St. James' Park in Newcastle-upon-Tyne is to see one of their local boys make it in the big time. They love it when someone who hails from the northeast of England cause Newcastle United's iconic stadium to sing in unison. It happened on Saturday night - even though there wasn't a match on!

Musician Sam Fender is currently one of the biggest acts in the United Kingdom. The 29-year-old rocker sells out shows around the country, but his gig at St. James' Park, the stadium where he comes to watch his favourite football team, was always going to be special. Fender starts all his show with the old tune called Coming Home: Theme of the Local Hero, written by another local musician, Mark Knopfler of the legendary band Dire Straits. Coincidentally, Newcastle United play that song every time teams come out to the pitch in Newcastle - and since many of the people in the stands were from the city, it must have felt like the most thrilling football game they've been to.

Fender dished out hit after hit to the adoring crowd. Still, he didn't miss the opportunity to play the UEFA Champions League theme song as a reminder of their team's fantastic season and an unexpected top-four finish that warrants the Magpies' return to Europe's best competition.

The love around St. James' Park for Sam and his ban is comparable to the love the locals have for their football team, and it all got mixed up on Saturday.