Despite a bright start, Tony Mowbray’s side fell a goal behind in the 18th minute when Ross Stewart scored an unfortunate own goal.
The striker responded immediately though, winning a penalty before converting from the spot four minutes later.
Substitute Ellis Simms then converted the winning goal in stoppage-time.
Here’s how Phil Smith rated each Sunderland player at the Stadium of Light:
Substitute Ellis Simms then converted the winning goal in stoppage-time.
. Anthony Patterson - 6
Made an excellent stop on an otherwise quiet afternoon to deny Morton from giving Blackburn the lead for a second tiem against the run of play. 6 Photo: Martin Swinney
. Lynden Gooch - 6
Did OK defensively in the main up against one of the very best forwards in the league. Put in some good crosses throughout that could have led to more. Added to Sunderland’s injury concerns with an apparent muscle problem late on. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
. Daniel Ballard - 8
Made the foul that led to Blackburn’s opener but got stronger and stronger as the game went on, was impressive and powerful in the latter stages. 8 Photo: Frank Reid
. Luke O’Nien - 9
One or two uncertain moments on the ball but that’s to be expected when he’s being tasked with bringing it out. Defended so tenaciously and is earning this role on merit - so impressive the way he’s stepped up of late. 9 Photo: Frank Reid
5. Dennis Cirkin - 5
Looked a little short of his absolute sharpest through the first half and after a tricky start to the second he was withdrawn with an injury. A concern for Sunderland given that Aji Alese was also absent from the squad. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
6. Corry Evans - 6
A tidy performance that was important in allowing Amad and Roberts to shine without exposing the rest of the team. 6 Photo: Stu Forster
7. Dan Neil - 7
Particularly in the second half he did well, nicking the ball back in good areas and sparking some good moves. Very solid all-round display in the middle of the park. 7 Photo: Martin Swinney
8. Patrick Roberts - 7
Didn’t quite find the big contribution he will have been hoping for but produced a performance full of clever touches and linked up well with Amad - Mowbray will surely be tempted to pursue that further. 7 Photo: Martin Swinney