Player Ratings: Sunderland 3-0 Rochdale - Here’s how the Lads rated after class 1st half display

Jon McLaughlin: 7/10

Only had one save to make, was quick to recycle possession and threw the ball quickly and effectively on the odd occasion it did reach him.

Jordan Willis: 8/10

Was alert and quick to snuff out any danger on Rochdale’s rare forays into the Sunderland half, got forward to support Luke O’Nien and Chris Maguire effectively too.

Bailey Wright: 8/10

Has improved the whole team with his extra composure in defence and perceptive ability to read danger, another excellent showing.

Tom Flanagan: 8/10

Maybe his best ever passing display in red and white, Flanagan did a brilliant job releasing Hume time and time again, our lanky centre half didn’t have to do much defending all night.

Luke O’Nien: 6/10

His performance really dipped after half time, like his fellow wing back he wasted several great crossing opportunities.

Max Power: 8/10

Another Black Cat who enjoyed one of his best passing displays of the season, helped his team complete an utterly dominant performance.

George Dobson: 7/10

Quieter than his midfield partner, recycled possession effectively and covered plenty of ground throughout.

Denver Hume: 5/10

For the second game running for the most part, Hume’s crossing wasn’t up to scratch.

Chris Maguire: 8/10

The architect of the opening two goals, helping to start the scoring with a phenomenal cross, one of those nights where the 31-year-old was simply unplayable.

Lynden Gooch: 8/10

Bagged a brace and had a major role in a lot of Sunderland’s overwhelming, high tempo passing.

Charlie Wyke: 7/10

Made a nuisance of himself and was unlucky to see some of his impressive penalty box movement go unrewarded.

(SUB) Antoine Semenyo: 7/10

Linked play well and produced one outstanding turn in midfield.

(SUB) Duncan Watmore: 6/10

Unable to make an impact in limited minutes.

(SUB) Kyle Lafferty: n/a

Barely had a kick in his short cameo.

Man of the Match

Chris Maguire