After a goalless first half, Trai Hume opened the scoring with a header for the Black Cats seven minutes after the interval.
United captain Charlie Mulgrew then scored a spectacular own goal to double Sunderland’s lead ten minutes later.
Neil named a strong starting XI against the SPL side and only made two changes in the second half.
Here’s how each Sunderland player fared at Tannadice Park:
9. Alex Pritchard - 7
Picked up some dangerous pockets of space in front of the hosts’ defence where he could showcase his ability. Set-pieces were a little erratic. 7 Photo: JPI Media
10. Leon Dajaku - 6
Made a few runs with the ball but often ran into trouble playing on the left flank. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
11. Ross Stewart - 7
Dropped deep to link up play and made some good runs in behind. Saw a decent chance saved in the first half. 7 Photo: JPI Media
12. Jack Diamond (sub) - 6
(for Stewart, 65) - Replaced Stewart up front. Worked hard but the ball didn’t quite drop for him. 6 Photo: Frank Reid