Eliezer Mayenda started up front for Sunderland as Régis Le Bris named his first starting XI as Black Cats head coach.
Le Bris opted against any surprise selections, with the team unchanged from the XI that drew 2-2 with Marseille at Valley Parade last Saturday. Aji Alese partnered Luke O’Nien in the centre of defence, with Alan Browne partnering Dan Neil in midfield.
Leo Hjelde missed out due to injury, meaning that Nectar Triantis was named in the squad despite not featuring in pre-season due to injury. Pierre Ekwah was also on the bench after a recent back injury.
O’Nien opened the scoring in the first half after he headed home following Patrick Roberts’ free-kick and Dennis Cirkin’s assist. Sunderland went into the half-time interval 1-0 up. Jack Clarke then wrapped up the game in the second half to hand Le Bris his first win in the Championship.
Here, we take a look at how Phil Smith rated Sunderland’s players against Cardiff City:
1. Anthony Patterson
Distribution a little mixed at times but a really strong save from Goutas early on was crucial. Solid start to campaign. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
2. Trai Hume
Crashed into challenges throughout, particularly strong in the first half. A good test against the impressive Chris Willock and one he came through in the main. 7 | Ian Horrocks
3. Dennis Cirkib
A superb return to competitive football. Clever header to assist the opener and carried the ball forward so well in the first half. Quieter in the second but defended well and put in one brilliant cross that should have led to a goal. Massive to have him back. 9 | Getty Images
4. Luke O'Nien
One or two nervy moments but generally defended very well against his opposite number and took his goal nicely. Can’t ask for much more than that. 8 | Ian Horrocks