PLAYER RATINGS: Sunderland 1-0 Southend - Here’s how the Lads rated after today’s win at the SOL

Jon McLaughlin: 7/10

Largely untroubled, McLaughlin’s quick throws and decent distribution were a real bonus.

Conor McLaughlin: 7/10

Starting to look like the quality League One right back we were promised in the summer, used the ball well and put in some excellent crosses.

Jordan Willis: 7/10

Another impressive showing, he was alert when he had to be and secure in possession.

Joel Lynch: 6/10

Got away with a couple of lapses in concentration that could have been punished on another day.

Denver Hume: 8/10

Played with a confidence and swagger that has been lacking from his game all season, he also laid on the opener.

George Dobson: 7/10

Like Hume, Dobson looked like a much more confident rejuvenated player here, his long range passing was great.

Max Power: 6/10

Hard to remember too many substantial Power moments in the game, good or bad.

Chris Maguire: 7/10

Not at his best, but still a constant pest to the Southend United defence.

Luke O’Nien: 7/10

Took his goal brilliantly, linked up well with his fellow forwards.

Aiden McGeady: 7/10

Mainly acted as a decoy to the excellent Hume in the first half, McGeady began to dominate in the latter stages as more and more space became available to him.

Will Grigg: 7/10

Mainly played on the fringes of the match and squandered a few half chances.

(SUB) Duncan Watmore: 7/10

The final ball was inconsistent, but he was a lively menace and nearly scored.

(SUB) Marc McNulty: 6/10

Provided a well-needed energy boost to the side that were beginning to stumble over the finishing line.

(SUB) Grant Leadbitter n/a

Came on in the dying minutes.

Man of the Match

Denver Hume