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:
9. Elliot Embleton
At the heart of all Sunderland’s promising attacking play. Produced a fine assist for Stewart’s goal and was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet himself with a couple of excellent efforts. Very impressive. 8 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
10. Josh Hawkes
Showed some good touches and never looked overawed in possession. Work to do in one-v-one duels but clearly a talent. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2019
11. Ross Stewart
Made those good runs to stretch the game that we have seen all pre-season, and this time pounced on his chance to score with a fine finish. Impressive, again. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2019
12. Aiden O'Brien
Went close with one header and was generally a good presence as ever. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2020