Charlie Wyke scored the only goal of the game just before the hour mark to send the Black Cats up to fifth in League One. Our SAFC writer Phil Smith has dished out his player ratings following the match – scroll down and flick through the pages to see who shone and struggled:
1. Jon McLaughlin - 6
Had little to do but was solid when called upon, making one good stop from an excellent free-kick and being quick off his line when required. 6 Photo: Lewis Storey
2. Luke O'Nien - 6
Tremendous energy throughout the contest, covering a lot of ground and battling hard in a tough contest. 6 Photo: JPI Media
3. Jordan Willis - 6
Distribution was poor at times. Looked uncertain in his battle against Morgan Ferrier early on but came through it. 6 Photo: Alex Davidson
4. Bailey Wright - 7
Should have scored just minutes into his debut, somehow turning a header over the bar from yards out. A solid performance in defence, with one superb challenge to deny Morris just moments after Sunderland’s goal. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2020