Second half goals from Josh Hawkes and Oliver Younger were enough for the young Black Cats after a tepid first half.
Hawkes opened the scoring with a well-placed effort from the edge of the box before he turned provider for Younger, who glanced home a header from a teasing free-kick.
Sunderland are potentially now just 90 minutes away from a place in Premier League 2 Division 1, capping a remarkable turnaround after the side finished with just a single point to their name last season.
But who caught the eye at the bet365 Stadium?
Our man Mark Donnelly was at the game and has dished out his player ratings from the clash – with some high marks on show after a superb away showing from Elliott Dickman’s men...
5. Oliver Younger
Took his goal exceptionally well and was a reliable presence at the back, organising the backline and keeping Stoke at bay. Looks every bit a first-team player in the making. 8 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
6. Sam Wilding
Did his job in the middle well, breaking up play and winning his aerial battles. 6 Photo: Morgan Harlow
7. Jake Hackett
Was a presence throughout and helped Sunderland in both halves, breaking up play and then driving the side forward. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
8. Stephen Wearne
Did well to win the free-kick for Sunderland's second goal and was always a willing outlet, even if his end product was mixed. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2020