First-half goals from Grant Leadbitter, Charlie Wyke and Jack Diamond put Sunderland in command against the high-flying Imps, before Wyke added a second after the break to seal the win.
So who caught the eye at Sincil Bank? Scroll down and click through the pages as Phil Smith dishes out his player ratings from the superb win in Lincolnshire:
5. Tom Flanagan
Defended very well in what was a solid showing after the first ten minutes or so. Then produced a superb pass in the build up to the fourth goal that settled the contest. 8 Photo: Frank Reid
6. Grant Leadbitter
Snapped into tackles all over the pitch and showed his typical passing range. Caught out once or twice but that it is to be expected given the way Sunderland are now committing bodies forward. Generally very good and his penalty was nerveless. 8 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
7. Josh Scowen
Broke up play well and was important to Sunderland’s aggressive passing game. Missed a big chance to make it 4-0 before half time but had already got through a lot of important work before then. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2019
8. Max Power
Played a big part in the second goal, building up play down the right very well. His best performance for a while, enjoying the licence to break forward in the first half and smart in his use of possession throughout the second. 8 Photo: FRANK REID 2019