A brace from Mitch Curry was enough for the Black Cats as they soaked-up plenty of visiting pressure before being clinical on the counter-attack.
So who really impressed during the game?
Scroll down and click through the pages as the Echo’s Mark Donnelly dishes out his merit marks from the clash - with some high marks on offer:
1. Anthony Patterson
Twice made good stops to deny Perry at 1-0 and made a stunning fingertip save to keep out Richards at the death. Little he could do about the penalty and showed great bravery to come and claim some dangerous crosses when Sunderland were under the cosh. 8 Photo: Frank Reid
2. Ryan Wombwell
Most of Wolves' play was focused down the left, but Wombwell looked composed enough on the right flank when the visitors switched things up. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
3. Patrick Almond
Imperious at the back, winning everything in the air and breaking up countless Wolves attacks. 7 Photo: Frank Reid
4. Brandon Taylor
Won plenty in the air and helped keep Wolves at bay when they piled on the pressure in their large spells of dominance. Was booked after the bizarre penalty incident. 6 Photo: FRANK REID