The Black Cats took a first-half lead when Joe Gelhart received Amad’s pass before converting with a low effort past goalkeeper Tomas Vacilk.
Sunderland had chances to double their lead before the break but were pegged back just before the hour mark, with Josh Koroma’s deflected effort beating Anthony Patterson.
Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players against Huddersfield:
9. Amad - 5
Missed two huge openings in either half, the first one fired over the bar from close range and the second when he couldn’t gather Jack Clarke’s pass late in the game. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
10. Jack Clarke - 6
Made a few superb driving runs that probably could have yielded at least one assist, particularly late on when he almost teed up Amad. 6 Photo: Martin Swinney
11. Joe Gelhardt - 7
Produced his best 45 in a Sunderland shirt, with some excellent touches and a superb, precise strike to give his side in the lead. Struggled to get into the second half as Sunderland badly lost their shape. 7 Photo: Frank Reid
12. Isaac Lihadji (sub) - 5
Struggled to effect the game from a central position. 5 Photo: Frank Reid