A strike early in the second half consigned the Black Cats to defeat, despite creating a number of good opportunities against their top flight opposition. But who shone and struggled in the game? Scroll down to see how our Sunderland AFC writer Phil Smith rated each individual performance – with some positives to take across the board:
13. Lynden Gooch - 6
Bright enough in an unfamiliar role again, but little chance to get forward. 6 Photo: Ian Horrocks
14. Jack Diamond - 6
Came on in a very unfamiliar wing-back position to see out the final minutes of the game. N/A Photo: Ian Horrocks
15. Jack Baldwin - N/A
Little time to make an impression as he came on to protect Conor McLaughlin after a long outing for the Northern Irishman. N/A Photo: Ian Horrocks