Simon Grayson hailed the attitude and understanding displayed by his players following Sunderland's 3-1 win over Norwich City.
The Black Cats executed their game plan to perfection, absorbing the early pressure mounted by the Canaries before exploding into action on the counter attack to provide a knockout blow.
Lewis Grabban struck first as James Vaughan' s towering flick on sent the strike through in goal, and what followed was a moment of pure class as Aiden Mcgeady slammed the ball home to make it 2-0.
Grabban added a third with a thumping header soon after as Mcgeady registered an assist, with a late Norwich goal too little too late for the hosts.
"We always knew it was going to be a tough game because they have some very good players, so you have to give credit to our players for carrying out the instructions we've laid out in the last 48 hours.
"We knew they would have possession due to playing three at the back but we were happy for them to have it in certain areas, and ultimately we knew we would get opportunities on the counter attack."
He continued: "To go 3-0 up was a good situation and despite the goal it was a very pleasing afternoon for everyone.
"Vaughany does [deserve immense credit] because he puts in an incredible shift.
"They [Vaughan and Grabban] also get back and help the team with the work ethic they've both got.
"We've always said that we have players who can hurt the opposition and you've seen that today with two great goals.
"Overall it was a pleasing afternoon."