Eliezer Mayenda had the best chance of the first half for Sunderland in the opening minute of the game but saw his shot saved by Dan Grimshaw.
Despite their dominance in the opening 45, Sunderland couldn’t convert any of their chances as the first half ended goalless between the two sides.
Zak Johnson replaced Aji Alese in defence at half-time for Régis Le Bris with Blackpool making eight changes ahead of the second stanza. Chris Rigg then replaced Alan Browne at the 70-minute mark with the scores still level.
Sunderland took the lead deep into the second half through Jack Clarke after good work from Dan Neil, Chris Rigg and Patrick Roberts in the build-up.
Here, Phil Smith delivers his player ratings as Sunderland faced Blackpool at Bloomfield Road:
5. Aji Alese
Steady first half, probably should have scored when he turned Clarke’s cross wide of the far post from close range. Rarely troubled if a bit tentative at times, replaced at the break. 5 | Ian Horrocks
6. Dan Neil
Controlled the midfield, particularly in the first half. Some excellent turns to take opposition players out of the game - will just be a touch frustrated at a few overhit passes from promising positions but his tackle led directly to the winning goal. 7 | Ian Horrocks
7. Alan Browne
Another valuable outing as he got 70 minutes under his belt ahead of the new campaign. Got into some really good areas, linking up well with Roberts and Hume on the right. Still building his sharpness and faded a little but good signs generally. 6 | Ian Horrocks
8. Jobe Bellingham
A couple of really bright moments towards the end of the first half, seeing an effort deflected over and then a clever pass drifting just beyond Mayenda. Couple of big defensive interventions from set plays in the second half. Steady without threatening the goal too often. 6 | Ia Horrocks