Charlie Wyke scored the only goal of the game just before the hour mark to send the Black Cats up to fifth in League One. Our SAFC writer Phil Smith has dished out his player ratings following the match – scroll down and flick through the pages to see who shone and struggled:
9. Lynden Gooch - 5
Covered plenty of yards but a night when the ball just never quite dropped for him. 5 Photo: JPI Media
10. Chris Maguire - 6
His set pieces have become a major weapon in Sunderland’s armoury and proved the difference again here. Not a night where he could offer much creativity in open play but got the job done. 6 Photo: Lewis Storey
11. Charlie Wyke - 6
A frustrating night for the most part but delivered at the crucial moment, a good run across his marker and a smart header at the near post to deliver a crucial win. 6 Photo: JPI Media
12. Josh Scowen - N/A
Came on for his debut but little time to make an impact. N/A Photo: JPI Media