Jack Clarke opened the scoring just before the hour mark when he cut in from the right and fired a shot into the top corner.
Tony Mowbray’s side appeared to be heading towards a third consecutive victory before Trai Hume brought down substitute Jay Dasilva in the box, allowing Nahki Wells to convert from the penalty spot.
Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players at the Stadium of Light:
Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players at the Stadium of Light:
9. Adil Aouchiche - 5
Started really brightly, moving the ball out well to Clarke. Had one good chance inside the box but fired it wide. Struggled to build on that promising opening, losing the ball too often and withdrawn just before the hour mark. Unlucky that O’Leary made a brilliant save to turn his header onto the bar. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
10. Jack Clarke - 7
Made a big difference on his return to the side. Drove through Bristol City with ease throughout the contest and drew some decent stops from O’Leary. 7 Photo: Frank Reid
11. Jobe Bellingham - 6
Worked really hard and got into some good areas, twice denied by O’Leary from promising positions. Will be frustrated not to have got on the scoresheet. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
12. Bradley Dack (sub) - 6
Went very close to getting a winner when he did well to get into space at the back post, his header crashing off the underside of the bar. Some good touches. 6 Photo: Frank Reid