Tony Mowbray’s side were fortunate to still be level at half-time after Anthony Patterson saved Joe Ralls’ penalty.
Cardiff took the lead four minutes after the restart, though, as Mark Harris converted Mahlon Romeo’s low cross.
The hosts did apply some late pressure but couldn’t force an equaliser.
Our Sunderland writer Phil Smith has dished out his player ratings from the Stadium of Light:
The hosts did apply some late pressure but couldn’t force an equaliser.
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