A first-half Aiden O’Brien goal was enough to give Lee Johnson’s side the win. The results means Sunderland are now unbeaten in their last 11 games in all competitions having lost just once in 18.
The Black Cats are two points off second-placed Peterborough United (with one game in hand) and three points off Hull City in first (with two games in hand).
But who were the star performers, and who has work to do?
Our chief football 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:
1. Lee Burge
Didn’t have a great deal to do but was there again when his team needed him late on to deny Tutonda. Was always quick off his line in dangerous moments. Another very solid showing. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
2. MAX POWER
Bristol Rovers looked to target his flank early on but didn’t get much reward and in the end it was a very composed showing from the Sunderland captain. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
3. DION SANDERSON
A tough afternoon against a physical front line and got away with one or two errors. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2019
4. LUKE O'NIEN
Won a lot of headers and got the job done in what was a bruising encounter. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2020