The Black Cats fell a goal behind in the first half when Argyle striker Ryan Hardie broke clear on the counter attack and beat goalkeeper Anthony Patterson with a calm finish. Yet Sunderland responded after the interval, with Pierre Ekwah, Jack Clarke and Jobe Bellingham getting on the scoresheet.
Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players:
Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players:
5. Leo Hjelde - 7
Another steady and encouragingly solid display at left back. His arrival has allowed Hume to switch flanks and that is having a real positive impact. A good pick up on the evidence so far. 7 Photo: FRANK REID
Nothing short of exceptional in the second half. Shut down counters and won duels but also drove forward into space time and time again. Set up the third goal with a brilliant challenge and quick release to Jobe. 9 Photo: Frank Reid
Strikes the ball very cleanly as we’ve seen and his excellent low finish from the edge of the box was crucial coming so soon into the second half. Still has much to improve off the ball but is looking a real threat again after being pushed further forward and is enjoying his football as a result. 7 Photo: Frank Reid
A very low-key assist but they all count, his clever lay up for Ekwah getting his side back on track at the start of the second half. Flickered on his return to the starting XI with some brief but very dangerous drives. Good to see him back and valuable minutes in the tank. 7 Photo: Frank Reid