It lifted Tony Mowbray’s side back into the play-off places ahead of the international break, with the Black Cats now sitting sixth in the table.
It remains of course the tightest and most competitive divisions, with only four points separating Sunderland from the bottom half of the table. Generally, though, the table tells of a solid start to the season and particularly given the notable summer departures of Ross Stewart and Amad. The on-pitch identity has continued to develop even if there have been some teething up issues up front and some disappointing results.
So who has shone so far this season and who might Mowbray be looking to for greater involvement over the busy festive period? We take a closer look, player by player. Those unable to feature so far due to injury have not been included
17. PATRICK ROBERTS
Roberts' season so far is tricky to assess, with one goal contribution clearly less than he and his side would like. Yet Mowbray has also noted that he is near the very top of the Championship for 'second assists', demonstrating that he is involved in the bulk of Sunderland's attacking play. He picked up yet another of these on Saturday, his excellent cross headed across goal by Hume and forcing the crucial own goal. And he remains as good a player to watch as Sunderland have had this century. 7.5 Photo: Frank Reid
18. JACK CLARKE
The departures of Amad and Ross Stewart had left a big gap in this squad and it is Clarke who has stepped up. Nine goals, and though have been from the penalty spot he has won three of those himself, and that he keeps stepping up is testament to his confidence and status within the squad. Chipped in with assists, too, and has been often bordering on unplayable. You can't really pick fault with what he's done so far, it's been an incredible run. 10 Photo: Frank Reid
19. BRADLEY DACK
Just hasn't quite been able to get going yet, with a goal and an all-round strong performance against Southampton but some injury issues since. This was to be expected given his long-term recovery from two ACL injuries, and Mowbray has been clear that he always expected 20-25 appearances from him this season. Still, will hope to kick on after the international break. 5 Photo: FRANK REID 2022
20. ELLIS TAYLOR
Taylor looked a threat at times in his one appearance at Crewe, but a lack of action otherwise makes it very difficult to judge. Has performed very well in the U21s and is a real leader within that group. It may well be that with Mowbray’s attacking options generally growing, there is a decision for all parties to make around a loan later this year or in the January window. 5 Photo: Martin Swinney