John Marquis’ brace and a Marcus Harness strike sentenced the Black Cats to a 3-1 reverse, with Charlie Wyke’s goal a mere consolation as Sunderland – who played out the final minutes with ten men after Luke O’Nien’s dismissal – were comfortably second best.
But did anyone emerge with any credit against Pompey? Scroll down and click through the pages as Phil Smith dishes out his player ratings:
1. Lee Burge
Made a couple of smart stops and there was little he could have done about any of the goals, which were all very well-taken finishes. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
2. Jordan Willis
Looked off the pace in the first half on his return to the side. Was considerably better in the second and made some good covering challenges. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
3. Bailey Wright
Struggled on occasions against a quick and tenacious front line. Portsmouth didn’t give him any of the long balls he relishes defending against. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
4. Luke O’Nien
Was caught out twice in the second half, bringing down Ryan Williams as he got goalside of him in dangerous positions. Has been superb in the left centre-back role thus far but this performance might bring an end to that experiment. 4 Photo: Frank Reid