Tyler Walker netted twice for the Imps as they sealed a deserved three points at Sincil Bank. Indeed, the margin of victory could have been greater with the hosts also missing a second half penalty on an afternoon where Sunderland struggled to fashion any meaningful opportunities. But who shone and struggled in Lincolnshire? Scroll down and click through the pages to see how our Sunderland AFC writer, Phil Smith, rated the individual performances in the defeat:
5. Chris Maguire
Drew one save from Vickers with an effort from the edge of the box but looked off the pace otherwise. Little influence on the game. 5 Photo: FRANK REID 2019
6. Luke O'Nien
Got into good positions once or twice but generally handled comfortably enough by the Lincoln defence. Finished the game at left back as Ross tried to get his attacking options on the pitch. 5 Photo: FRANK REID
7. Charlie Wyke
Service wasn’t great but apart from one or two flick ons, offered very little threat and did very little in terms of getting efforts in on goal. Missed a big chance late on. 5 Photo: FRANK REID
8. Aiden McGeady
Well off the pace on his return from injury. Gave the ball away in the build up to the second goal soon after coming on, and struggled to get past his marker in possession after that. 5 Photo: FRANK REID