The Black Cats have taken 21 points from losing positions this campaign, including five wins and six draws. Only Middlesbrough, 25, have taken more points after falling behind in the second tier.
Several of Sunderland’s goals have also come in the final 10 minutes of matches, highlighting the energy and resolve of this young side.
Here are the 11 times the Black Cats have come from behind to claim valuable points this season - with some brilliant photos to go with them.
5. Sunderland 2 Blackburn 1
This was the last time Sunderland fans got to see Simms play at the Stadium of Light as the 22-year-old came off the bench to score a stoppage-time winner on Boxing Day. He would be recalled by parent club Everton less than a week later. Photo: Frank Reid
6. Blackpool 1 Sunderland 1
Mowbray felt his side should have won this New Year’s Day fixture after a slow start at Bloomfield Road. Ross Stewart’s second-half header still earned the visitors a point. Photo: Frank Reid
7. Millwall 1 Sunderland 1
In a hostile atmosphere against a fellow play-off contender, Sunderland showed real resolve to come from a goal down and earn a point at The Den. The visitors’ equaliser came at a cost as Cirkin was knocked out while scoring the equaliser, subsequently missing several matches in the weeks that followed. Photo: Frank Reid
8. Sunderland 1 Luton 1
Sunderland were perhaps fortunate to come away with a point in this one as Amad was awarded a soft penalty in the closing stages. The Manchester loanee then converted from the spot four minutes from time. Photo: Frank Reid