Goals from Chris Maguire, Will Grigg and Josh Scowen were enough to hand the Black Cats victory in what was their first outing since March.
But who caught the eye during the clash at the International Stadium, and who has work to do before September 12?
Scroll down and click through the pages to see Phil Smith's merit marks:
9. Chris Maguire
Well short of his sharpest and most incisive best but still produced a moment of serious quality. The goalkeeper had no chance against his brilliant free-kick, impressively struck to get above the wall and down into the top corner from close range. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2019
10. Elliot Embleton
Had a quiet start but was just beginning to enjoy more time and the ball and exert an influence when he went down with an injury. Was moving OK as he left the pitch but headed straight down the tunnel. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
11. Charlie Wyke
A peripheral figure for the most part, with Sunderland generally taking a patient approach in possession and looking to build out from the back at the home side sat deep. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
12. Dan Neil
Showed some clever touches and looked right at ease in possession. An encouraging cameo. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2020