The first-half finished goalless but both teams had chances to put their side ahead.
For Sunderland, Benji Kimpioka and Will Harris were wasteful.
Ethan Kachosa and Stephen Wearne were brought on at half-time but Sunderland went a goal down in the 53rd minute and faced an uphill battle.
Here, though, we take a look at how our chief football writer Phil Smith rated Sunderland’s players against Oldham Athletic:
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5. Sam Wilding.
Plenty of industry in midfield but Sunderland were unable to create much in possession. The game passed them by in the end. 5 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
6. Cieran Dunne
Has real pace and a good left foot but was found wanting for Oldham’s goal as he was caught in possession. Oldham found a lot of space behind the wing backs throughout on a tough night. 5 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
7. Leon Dajaku
One or two moments where he showed his quality but guilty of losing the ball too often. Left a lot of space in behind as he tries to adjust to a new wing-back role. Not his best showing. 5 Photo: COPYRIGHT (C) FRANK REID 20187
8. Elliot Embleton
Looked a real threat when he had time to drive with the ball, but the movement around him wasn’t always there. Wore the captain’s armband and withdrawn at the break with Saturday in mind. 6 Photo: PHOTOGRAPH BY FRANK REID 20