After a drab first half, Will Grigg’s late strike sealed victory for the Black Cats despite a concerning performance against their League Two opponents.
But who caught the eye ahead of next weekend’s return to competitive action, and who has work to do to convince Phil Parkinson they are deserving of a start?
Scroll down to see how Phil Smith rated the players against Harrogate:
5. Luke O'Nien
Was by far Sunderland’s best attacking outlet in the opening period, causing problems for the away side with some good combination play down the right. Quiet in the second half and unable to get forward as much. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2019
6. Denver Hume
Unusually subdued in the early exchanges, though he did go close with one volley at the back post. Was able to get forward more in the second period, and saw a good low cross almost converted by O’Brien. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
7. Max Power
Tidy enough in midfield and protected his defence typically well without creating much in possession. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
8. Josh Scowen
Tidy enough in midfield but it was his quietest performance of the pre-season programme so far. Nevertheless looks well placed to get a big opportunity to impress in the starting XI when the competitive action begins. 6 Photo: Frank Reid