The Black Cats fell a goal behind when Ozan Tufan opened the scoring after 11 minutes, yet two quickfire goals from Joe Gelhardt and Amad then put Sunderland ahead.
Hull drew level immediately, though, as Allahyar Sayyadmanesh equalised before half-time.
The visitors then retook the lead courtesy of Regan Slater’s second-half finish, yet Mowbray’s men appeared to be heading for three points after an Amad penalty and Jack Clarke finish nine minutes from time.
That was until Pierre Ekwah conceded a last-minute penalty and Tufan converted from the spot.
Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players against Hull:
5. Lynden Gooch - 5
Struggled defensively through the early stages, though had little support from the midfield in front of him. Did improve and had some dangerous moments in possession. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
6. Dan Neil - 7
Sunderland were overrun early on in midfield but Neil improved from the opening stages and had a very good game thereafter, tenacious and with quality on the ball. 7 Photo: Martin Swinney
7. Edouard Michut - 5
Looked well off the pace to begin with as Hull broke off the home midfield with ease, but improved considerably as Sunderland took better control. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
8. Patrick Roberts - 8
Played his part in some wonderful attacking play and had a big hand in what looked like it might be the winning fourth goal. 8 Photo: Martin Swinney