Sunderland recorded a one-sided victory over Rochdale as they came away 3-0 winners.

It's a result that strengthens the Black Cats' play-off position as they approach the final third of the season.

The home side dominated the first half as two goals from Lynden Gooch and an Eoghan O'Connell own goal gave Sunderland a 3-0 lead at the break.

The second half was something of a formality for Sunderland who cruised to a crucial three points in difficult conditions.

Here’s how we rated the Black Cats.

Jon McLaughlin – 7

I don’t think he touched the ball in the first half and had very little to do in the second.

Jordan Willis – 7

Swept up play with ease. Had very little to do other than feeding those in front of him with the ball.

Bailey Wright – 8

Solid as a rock at the back. Rarely looked like breaking a sweat.

Tom Flanagan – 8

Comfortable on the ball and assured at the back. Certainly made a case to retain his place in the weeks ahead.

Luke O’Nien – 8

Had acres of space to roam down the flank. A constant threat as he overloaded the Rochdale left back.

George Dobson – 7

Pressed well and put Rochdale under pressure. Kept possession well for the most part.

Max Power – 7

A solid display as Sunderland dominated the middle of the park.

Denver Hume – 8

Caused lots of problems down the left. A really good display.

Chris Maguire – 7

Put in an excellent cross for Lynden Gooch’s opener. Ran tirelessly but was replaced with what looked like a mild strain.

Charlie Wyke – 7

Held up the ball well. Just needed a goal to add to his display.

Lynden Gooch – 9

Had a wonderful game. Creative from deep and lethal in front of goal. The best player on the park until his substitution after 77 minutes.

Can you name every Sunderland player's shirt number this season? 

 

Substitutes

Antoine Semenyo - 5

A peripheral figure after his introduction. Maybe needs more gametime to truly gel into the system.

Duncan Watmore - 6

Looked to run at the defence at every opportunity which certainly worried the visitors. Lacked final product.

Kyle Lafferty - N/A

Introduced too late to make an impact.