Lee Johnson used the game to hand opportunities to more of his first-team squad, with Corry Evans handed a full debut in the centre of midfield and Oliver Younger starting the game at right-back.
Callum Doyle was handed another start in the fixture, but Will Grigg, Bailey Wright, Luke O’Nien and Alex Pritchard all missed out.
The Black Cats were in control throughout the first half and deservedly took the lead when Dan Neil swept home Aiden McGeady’s low cross.
But Kurt Willoughby levelled shortly after the break, with Benji Kimpioka then missing a late penalty after some excellent work to win the spot kick initially.
So how did each player perform?
Here, Phil Smith takes a look at how every player fared in the clash at the York Community Stadium...
13. Kenton Richardson
Defended well enough and played some good passes. A more natural option than Yougner in this position. Photo: Frank Reid
14. Aiden O’Brien
Got into some good spaces and linked up with team-mates well, but little sight of goal. Photo: Frank Reid
15. Josh Hawkes
Wasn’t able to get into the game much with York growing into the contest in the second half, but more involved in the closing stages. Photo: FRANK REID 2020
16. Nathan Newall
Steady enough with little real chance to make an impression. Photo: Pete Norton