After Max Power’s opener, goals from Cameron Jerome and Scott Fraser handed the visitors a victory they arguably deserved after a strong first-half showing.
But did any Sunderland players emerge with credit from the defeat, or is there work to do for them all?
Scroll down and click through the pages as Phil Smith dishes out his merit marks from the clash:
9. Lynden Gooch
Drove forward, particularly in the second half, with an urgency too often lacking from team-mates. One superb tackle on Lewington should have forged the equaliser, only for Grigg to miss from close range. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2019
10. Max Power
A touch of fortune with his goal, deflected past Fisher as he moved in the wrong direction. It was a clean and accurate strike, though. Thereafter he struggled against a vibrant opposition midfield, and his missed clearance led to his foul on Fraser for the penalty. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
11. Will Grigg
Started the game really well, poaching possession and coming within inches of producing an assist with a fine cross. His return to the league side, though, will be defined by two crucial misses, the second from barely a yard. 4 Photo: Frank Reid
12. Chris Maguire
Saw plenty of possession, but in too deep a position to really trouble the opposition. 5 Photo: Frank Reid