The Black Cats never make things easy for themselves, and it could be another nervy end to the season for the club, with another trip to Wembley Stadium looking like it could be a distinct possibility, as hopes of securing automatic promotion continue to fade.
After Tuesday night's draw with Hull City, Sunderland need to bounce back with a big win against Accrington Stanley this weekend, as they head into their final four games of the season.
Here's the latest rundown of the current League One promotion odds, after another action-packed night of third-tier football:
1. Gillingham - current odds: 500/1
Stranger things have happened, but it really would take a miracle now for Gillingham to claw their way into the top six, and then somehow win the play-offs. Photo: James Chance
2. Accrington Stanley - current odds: 350/1
The table is so tightly-packed that John Coleman's side, currently in 12th place, could potentially get promoted this season. That said, it's very, very unlikely at this stage. Photo: Pete Norton
3. Doncaster Rovers - current odds: 100/1
Long, long odds, these are. Donny would need to win both of their two games in hand to stand a chance of making the play-offs, and hope that results elsewhere go their way. Photo: Joe Portlock
4. Ipswich Town - current odds: 66/1
Without a win in five matches, the Tractor Boys don't look like they'll be going up this season. It'll be interesting to see how heavily they invest in new players this summer, following their recent £40m takeover. Photo: Pete Norton