Benji Kimpioka gave the hosts a second-half lead but an own goal from Michael Collins and a dubious penalty dispatched by Rhian Brewster handed the visitors three points in Group F.
Our man James Copley was at Hetton to watch Sunderland’s impressive performance and dished out some high ratings.
Scroll down and click through the pages to see how the Lads rated in defeat.
5. Michael Collins - 7
Unlucky to score an own goal. Did well as part of the back five alongside Bainbridge and Edmunsson | JPIMedia Photo: Tom Banks
6. Cieran Dunne - 7
Made a couple of nice breaks in the first have to relieve the pressure on Sunderland’s defence. | JPIMedia Photo: Tom Banks
7. Lee Connelly - 6
The passionate Scot did well to hold the ball up but wasn’t able to carve out an opportunity for himself. | JPIMedia Photo: Tom Banks
8. Benji Kimpioka - 7
The Swede's pace was always a threat but Kimpioka lacked quality and calmness with the ball at his feet. Offside quite often but managed to fire his side in front with a smart finish. | JPIMedia Photo: Tom Banks