The Black Cats took a first-half lead when Alex Pritchard converted an excellent free-kick, yet the visitors couldn’t make their advantage count.
Second-half goals from Cheltenham’s Elliot Bonds and Alfie May turned the game on its head.
Sunderland right-back Trai Hume made his debut for the club, while Jay Matete and Jack Clarke were handed their first starts.
Our chief SAFC writer Phil Smith has delivered his verdict on how each player fared at the Jonny-Rocks Stadium:
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5. Callum Doyle - 5
Never really able to step out in possession as he is capable of doing. A quiet game and unable to help turn the tide in the second. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
6. Dennis Cirkin - 5
Got into the game relatively well and played one or two decent crosses, but is short of confidence at the moment and still has uncertain moments defensively. 5 Photo: JPI Media
7. Corry Evans - 4
Started well, making some good interceptions and forays forward. Unable to prevent the two goalbound shots as Sunderland were again exposed away from home. 4 Photo: JPI Media
8. Jay Matete - 5
Got through his work well in the first half, impressing with his neat passing and willingness to run with the ball. Little impact on the second. 5 Photo: JPI Media