Ross Stewart scored the game’s only goal at the Stadium of Light when he capitalised on Sam Hutchinson’s mistake on the stroke of half time.
Sunderland had chances to double their lead in the second half as Alex Pritchard hit the crossbar.
The hosts were also forced to defend their advantage in the closing stages but held onto their clean sheet.
Our chief SAFC writer Phil Smith has delivered his verdict on how each Black Cats player fared at the Stadium of Light:
The hosts were also forced to defend their advantage in the closing stages but held onto their clean sheet.
5. Lynden Gooch - 7
Played as an orthodox right back after a system change and defensively made a very good go of the challenge, which was crucial to the win. 7 Photo: Frank Reid
6. Corry Evans - 8
A performance that embodied his importance to this side in recent times. Never gave the ball away and picked up some excellent defensive positions. 8 Photo: JPI Media
7. Luke O’Nien - 6
A little frantic on the ball through the opening stages but competed well and broke up Sheffield Wednesday’s play regularly. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
8. Jack Clarke - 6
One or two good breaks into the channel but it wasn’t a game in which there was much space for him to drive forward with the ball. 6 Photo: FRANK REID PHOTOGRAPHER 2022