Lynden Gooch’s last-ditch header, pandemonium in the stands and a football club looking forward with optimism.
Much water has passed under the bridge since that 2-1 win over Charlton in what was Sunderland’s first League One game.
Indeed, just three of the players who featured for the Black Cats that day still remain on the books at the Stadium of Light as the 2020/21 season approaches.
So what happened to the rest of them? We take a look:
1. Jon McLaughlin
A popular and reliable presence during his two years on Wearside, McLaughlin departed the club this summer and joined Scottish side Rangers - where he has quickly made an impression, staring their last two top flight games. Photo: FRANK REID 2019
2. Donald Love
Signed from Manchester United during the Premier League era, injury meant Love struggled to make an impression in the 2018/19 season - and he was allowed to join Shrewsbury Town last summer. He remains with the Shrews today. Photo: FRANK REID
3. Glenn Loovens
The Dutch centre back was in and out the side under Jack Ross, and departed last summer. He has since gone on to forge a career in scouting, recommending players to former club Celtic. Photo: FRANK REID
4. Alim Ozturk
One of Jack Ross' first signings, Ozturk left the club last summer after falling down the pecking order under Phil Parkinson. He remains a free agent. Photo: FRANK REID 2020