Jon McLaughlin: 5/10

Beaten by a shot straight down his throat, caught out coming off his line again in the first half. McLaughlin’s command of his area and decision-making from crosses was impressive, but he’s gone from a rock to a weak link this season.

Conor McLaughlin: 4/10

Had no answer for Jake Hastie all night, was mercifully subbed off on a yellow card, before further damage could be done.

Jordan Willis: 6/10

Battled well defensively, but struggled to show any quality in possession all evening.

Alim Ozturk: 7/10

Showed great awareness and technique to set up Marc McNulty’s opener. Ozturk had another solid all round game, reading danger and showing much improved distribution from the Stanley game.

Denver Hume: 6/10

Produced one outstanding first half cross, but remains suspect and unreliable, for every moment of elite skill, there’s a meaningless punt to no one.

Dylan McGeouch: 6/10

Managed a few of his typical game-breaking passes, but failed to dominate the midfield.

George Dobson: 6/10

Played with great tenacity and energy, but lacked composure in his decision-making and passing, especially in transition. The young midfielder botched some of Sunderland’s best counter attacking opportunities in the first half.

Aiden McGeady: 7/10

His performance will be remembered by his pitiful penalty, but McGeady did produce two or three moments of real class. Daniel Iversen needed a magnificent fingertip save to deny the Republic of Ireland international an outstanding goal.

Lynden Gooch: 7/10

Superb in Sunderland’s dominant start, equaling his man of the match showing at Accrington. Unfortunately, as United found their bearings, Gooch faded to the periphery.

Luke O’Nien: 7/10

Played like a man possessed, involved in everything Sunderland did, good or bad. His infectious energy created havoc throughout, even if his final ball was sometimes lacking.

Marc McNulty: 8/10

His most impressive showing as Sunderland’s ‘main’ striker. McNulty chased lost causes and worried the Millers with his pace in behind. His hold up play was much improved, and of course, he showcased brilliant technique and composure to fire the lads ahead.

(SUB) Charlie Wyke: 5/10

Squandered his big chance to put Sunderland level, when he went through on goal.

(SUB) Chris Maguire: 6/10

Helped Sunderland at least regain some form of an attacking threat after his introduction.

(SUB)Will Grigg: n/a

Came on in the chaotic final minutes of the match.

Man of the Match: Marc McNulty