Goals from Grant Leadbitter, Lynden Gooch and Charlie Wyke saw the Black Cats win a game that at times became heated, with Burton having been reduced to ten men in the second half.
Our Sunderland writer Phil Smith has dished out his marks from the match – scroll down and flick through the pages of our picture gallery to see how each player fared:
13. Carl Winchester
Tidy in possession and produced one superb turn to set Jones away on the break. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
14. Jordan Jones
A real threat on the counter, getting a deserved assist. Drove into space well. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
15. Jack Diamond
Stretched the defence when he could and looked sharp. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
16. Chris Maguire
Introduced late on with the game won. Had one good shot saved. N/A. Photo: Frank Reid