Sergio Agüero’s first half strike was enough to ensure Manchester City left the Stadium of Light with all three points on Tuesday night.
Despite Sunderland dominating the second half, the Black Cats couldn’t convert their chances as Sam Allardyce’s side remain second-from-bottom in the standings.
The performance was much improved however, leading to some high scores in this week's player ratings.
Impressive individuals in defence
Vito Mannone (6): The Italian didn’t have an awful lot to do as his side were on the front-foot, albeit questions were raised over the keeper’s distribution.
Billy Jones (4): At fault for Manchester City’s goal. Aguero found space beyond the right-back before firing the visitors into the lead. Jones also had two glorious chances after the break, one of which hit the post and the other which Joe Hart tipped over an effort from outside the box. The former West Bromwich Albion man couldn’t find a final ball either as his opposing player forced the Sunderland man into numerous mistakes.
John O’Shea (7): It was a good performance from the Sunderland captain. The Republic of Ireland international won all of his duels in the air and showed a great understanding of the game.
Lamine Kone (8): An outstanding debut from the new boy. Went close with two headers, although should have scored from the second one. Defensively, Kone didn’t put a foot wrong and, like O’Shea, won everything in the air. The Ivory Coast defender was cool, calm and collected throughout, showing a good range of passing and had the confidence to take the ball out from the back.
Patrick Van Aanholt (6): Very good going forward and didn’t give anything away at the other end. It was a solid performance from the Dutchman.
Jan Kirchhoff (9): Man of the match and rightly so. The versatile German protected his back four superbly. Kirchhoff was another player who was impressive in the air and he even pulled out a trick or two. Great home debut after a disastrous away one at White Hart Lane.
Attack lively, but not clinical
Fabio Borini (6): Worked hard, however didn’t have a lot of joy going forward in comparison to his team-mates.
Lee Cattermole (6): The central-midfielder produced some excellent tackles on the edge of his box and was heavily involved all game.
Yann M’Vila (7): Another midfielder who enjoyed a good night’s work. Never stopped running, winning the ball back for his team and showed a good range of passing.
Jeremain Lens (5): Was taken off at half time. The winger had a quiet night and didn’t do anything to write home about.
Jermain Defoe (7): Defoe was lively throughout, holding the ball up well; bringing other players into the game. Clashed with Nicolas Otamendi following a raised elbow, although replays suggested there was minimal contact and it was accidental.
Substitutes try to make a difference
Dame N’Doye (6): Had an effort blocked off the line late on. First touch was poor but he was given too little time to make an impact.
Adam Johnson (6): Up against his former employers, Johnson looked to make something happen but City stood resolute much to the frustration of the home support.
Wahbi Khazri (7): Demonstrated some really neat touches and nearly scored from a corner. Could play a big part in Sunderland’s quest to survival. Looks to be a good addition by Big Sam.