Goals either side of the break from Charlie Wyke and Chris Maguire handed the Black Cats a deserved victory at the County Ground after what was a controlled performance.
So who were the star men, and who has work to do? Our chief football writer Phil Smith has dished out his merit marks – which you can see by scrolling down and clicking through the pages:
1. Lee Burge
Another game in which he was largely untested and left with another hugely valuable clean sheet. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
2. Jordan Willis
Sunderland’s worst fears were realised when their best defender over the last 18 months went down with a knee injury. The deadline day arrival of Dion Sanderson has potentially saved the Black Cats from having a major, major problem on their hands. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
3. Bailey Wright
Yet again marshaled the defence with confidence and poise. Even with their options reshuffled, Sunderland were once again resilient and secure for the vast majority of the game. 7 Photo: Frank Reid
4. Luke O’Nien
Swindon were adamant that they should have had a penalty when he and Payne clashed at the start of the second half. It would have been harsh, in another game where O’Nien showed his intelligence and versatility with another strong display. 7 Photo: Frank Reid