Despite some early pressure, the Black Cats took the lead when Edouard Michut scored his first goal for the club with 30 minutes played.
The hosts equalised on the stroke of half-time, though, when Manchester City loanee James McAtee found space in the box and converted with a low finish.
Another City loanee then scored the winner as Tommy Doyle’s free-kick went straight in just after the hour mark.
Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players:
Another City loanee then scored the winner as Tommy Doyle’s free-kick went straight in just after the hour mark.
5. Luke O’Nien - 7
Played some excellent passes at times and had some good defensive moments, probably unfortunate to finish up on the losing side. 7 Photo: Frank Reid
6. Dan Neil - 6
Was left exposed quite often early on but was good on the ball, playing a part in the goal and almost carving out some additional good chances. 6 Photo: Martin Swinney
7. Edouard Michut - 7
Took his goal superbly, both in the initial touch and then the shot into the far corner. Broke forward well throughout in a good performance, though Sunderland were again exposed on the break regularly. 7 Photo: Frank Reid
8. Patrick Roberts - 6
Will rue the pass to Clarke that was cut out in the build up to the equalising goal right on the stroke of half time. Had some brilliant moments through the game and so unlucky to see a long-range effort strike the post. 6 Photo: Martin Swinney