Phil Parkinson named a much-changed side for the visit to Priestfield, but his side were once again underwhelming and were undone in controversial circumstances at Priestfield as Connor Ogilvie netted late on.
But who emerged with credit from the 1-0 defeat? Scroll down and click through the pages to see how our Sunderland AFC writer, Phil Smith, rated the individual performances on display:
1. Jon McLaughlin
Looked composed on his return to the side, generally dealing well with the barrage of set pieces that were fired into his box. 6 Photo: FRANK REID
2. Conor McLaughlin
Offered little going forward but did his defensive duties relatively well for the most part. 5 Photo: FRANK REID
3. Alim Ozturk
Battled tenaciously against a physical forward line but poor in possession. 5 Photo: FRANK REID
4. Jordan Willis
Good in the air and his pace was important against a Gillingham side who caused problems going forward, particularly in the first half. 6 Photo: FRANK REID