Despite a bright start, the Black Cats fell a goal down in the 17th minute when defender Christian Kabesle headed home a corner.
Sunderland were then undone by another set-piece, as Ryan Porteous headed in another corner midway through the second half.
The hosts did manage to pull a goal back immediately when Luke O’Nien converted from close range in the 70th minute, before Patrick Roberts scored an excellent equaliser in stoppage-time.
Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players against Watford:
13. Edouard Michut (sub) - 5
Didn’t make a major impact on the contest, though was tidy enough on the ball. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
14. Abdoullah Ba (sub) - 6
Helped quicken up Sunderland’s game by taking players on and committing players to a challenge. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
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