A fine first-half strike from Max Power proved enough for the Black Cats, who sealed their passage to the fourth round of the Carabao Cup at Bramall Lane. But which players came away with extra credit from South Yorkshire, and who has room to improve? Scroll down and click through the pages to see who our Sunderland AFC writer, Phil Smith, rated highly after the shock triumph:
1. Lee Burge
Kept his side in the game early on when Sheffield United were dominant, making a couple of fine saves. Protected superbly by his defence in the second half and dealt with crosses with minimum fuss. 7 Photo: FRANK REID
2. Conor McLaughlin
Comfortably his best showing in a Sunderland shirt. Kept it simple and didn’t put a foot wrong defensively, with a host of good clearances and interceptions. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2019
3. Tom Flanagan
Fortunate to get away with a big error in the opening minutes but recovered admirably, part of a defence that did a superb job in the second half to restrict attempts on Burge’s goal. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2019
4. Joel Lynch
An excellent debut. Dominant in the air, organised well and took no chances in possession. 8 Photo: Frank Reid