Elliott Dickman named a youthful squad at New Ferens Park, with a number of the club’s academy prospects catching the eye during the 5-1 triumph. And our writer, Mark Donnelly, has dished out his player ratings from the clash – with some high marks for some of the club’s exciting youngsters. Scroll down and click through the pages to see who impressed during the triumph:
9. Lee Connelly - 8
Led the line well for Sunderland and deserved his goals. Lively as ever and dealt well with a physical defensive unit. 8 Photo: FRANK REID
10. Dan Neil - 6
Played a key role in the build-up to the fourth and fifth goals and looked a threat in behind Connelly. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
11. Cieran Dunne - 7
A really exciting prospect, on the basis of this performance at least. Quick and direct, he proved a real menace throughout. If he can improve on his end product then Sunderland could have a player on their hands. 7 Photo: Michael Gillen
12. Joshua Baggs - 6
Entered the fray after the interval as the Black Cats dictated the game, and had little to do. 6 Photo: Ian MacNicol