Sunderland coasted to victory in the Premier League 2 on Monday evening, beating Derby County 6-0 at the Eppleton Colliery Welfare Ground.
The main headline for the Black Cats was the inclusion of recent signing Aaron Connolly, and the Irishman got himself on the score sheet as he completed his first 45 minutes in red and white. The striker streaked away to double Sunderland’s advantage after lively winger Tommy Watson had given them the lead.
After the break, Graeme Murty’s side really started to run riot, with Connolly’s replacement, Caden Kelly, winning and converting a penalty, and the visitors struggling to ever truly lay a glove on their hosts.
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Sunderland then indulged in a late flurry of goals, with Nazariy Rusyn heading home a Jenson Jones delivery to make it four before the full-back bagged a strike of his own following some good work from Watson. Watson would then round out an eye-catching performance with his second deep into stoppage time at the end of the contest.
5. Jenson Jones - 9
Couple of minor frights early on, including a possible shout for a Derby penalty, but grew into the game wonderfully, and was rewarded with a goal and an assist. A really pleasing showing from the full-back. He shone brightly. Photo: Photo courtesy of Ben Cuthbertson
6. Ben Middlemas - 8
A real steady presence for Sunderland in the middle of the park. Looks to be forming a nice little partnership with Marshall Burke at the base of midfield. | Frank Reid
7. Marshall Burke - 7
Everything you could say about Middlemas applies to his midfield accomplice too. Battled well, and was pleasingly economical in possession. Photo: FRANK REID
8. Harrison Jones - 8
Showed the best of himself with a driving run into the final third and smart pass for Tommy Watson's first goal, and generally impressed with his enterprising and creative intent. The U21s skipper is a real gem. | Chris Fryatt