Grant Leadbitter’s thumping penalty after a foul on Denver Hume handed the Black Cats the three points on Wearside, after a game in which clear-cut chances proved elusive for Phil Parkinson’s men.
So who earned top marks in the clash, and who has work to do to keep their place in the side? Scroll down as Phil Smith dishes out his player ratings:
5. Luke O'Nien
Full of running and defensively did well for the most part against Butler, who was only really able to get free once in the first half. Got forward but little chance to really create or get an attempt on goal, aside from one first-half header. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
6. Denver Hume
Sunderland’s best attacking player by a distance in the first half, putting in some excellent crosses that deserved more. Quieter in the second half but kept going and won the penalty with one of those trademark surges infield. Growing and growing as a player. 7 Photo: Frank Reid
7. Grant Leadbitter
The lively Siriki Demble caused him some problems early on but he quickly settled into the contest and played well at the base of midfield. His penalty was superb, and his goal line clearance at the other end minutes later was every bit as important. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
8. Josh Scowen
Really struggled in the early minutes of the game as Peterborough impressed. He improved, and drew one tremendous stop from Pym at the start of the second half. His end product was mixed but he looked better when pushed further forward after Maguire’s departure. 6 Photo: Frank Reid