The Black Cats had seen their pre-match preparations take a significant hit due to an outbreak of gastroenteritis within the group, which sidelined some senior players and a number of the U23 youngsters who have stepped up of late.
Head coach Lee Johnson was also missing as a result of the outbreak, but will be encouraged by some of the entertaining forward play from his young side.
Ross Stewart put Sunderland a goal up in the first half after some excellent work in midfield by Elliot Embleton, who was a constant threat to the visitors down the middle in the first stanza.
However, after several substitutions from the home side, the visitors levelled the scores after visitors Lewie Coyle's cross was turned home by Josh Magennis.
Super-sub Will Grigg netted a winner for Sunderland just minutes before the full-time whistle
But how did the Sunderland Echo’s chief SAFC writer, Phil Smith, rate Lee Johnson’s men tonight after the game against Hull City?
Here, we take a look:
5. Dan Neil
Had one uncertain moment early on when Longman burst past him, but settled in well and even managed to break forward to support his team’s attacking. Another accomplished showing from an impressive young player. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
6. Corry Evans
Showed a good passing range and kept things moving in an impressive team display through the first half. Looks set to start the campaign in a crucial role 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
7. Luke O'Nien
Tidy in possession and it was his excellent, crunching tackle that led to the opening goal. Looked at home in midfield ahead of the new season. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
8. Lynden Gooch
A threat through the first half as he drove infield from the right, just not quite finding the final ball. Looked a little exposed when asked to play at left back, understandable given he was only just returning from injury. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2019