A brace from Charlie Wyke and a header from Morgan Feeney were added to by late Josh Scowen, Max Power, George Dobson, Danny Graham and Aiden O’Brien strikes as Sunderland ran riot against Villa’s development squad.
So who impressed in the thumping win? Scroll down and click through the pages as Phil Smith dishes out his player ratings:
5. Jack Diamond
What we can say for certain is that watching this player develop is going to be fun and unmissable. He can lose the ball in dangerous areas and there were moments where staff and players were left frustrated, but there was also some wonderful dribbling and that willingness to take the aggressive option every time he gets the ball means you can’t take your eyes off him. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
6. Lynden Gooch
A little off the pace in the early stages but grew into the contest and showed great intensity in an unfamiliar position. Had a real impact going forward in the second half. 7 Photo: Frank Reid
7. Josh Scowen
Was lively and a threat from open play, breaking forward from midfield regularly. Fully deserved his goal. Also caught the eye with a trio of tremendous corners that forced three of the home team’s goals. 9 Photo: Frank Reid
8. Grant Leadbitter
Set the tone for his team with a performance of intensity and quality, particularly in the first half. Drove the team on. Very good. 8 Photo: Frank Reid