Chris Coleman pulled no punches with his post-match assessment from Sheffield United.
The Welshman recalled Bryan Oviedo and Aiden McGeady to the starting line-up, replacing Donald Love and Lewis Grabban, but the duo were powerless to preventing John Lundstram guiding home the opener late in the first period.
Sunderland were bright at the start of the second 45, but the hosts quickly regained control and two goals in three minutes from Richard Stearman and George Baldock saw the Blades secure all three points.
Speaking post-match, Coleman delivered his verdict.
“It is the first time since I have witnessed a performance that no matter what angle you look at it, it wasn’t good enough," he said.
“There was an acceptance about us today and that was pretty alarming. It was very disappointing so there is plenty of food for thought.
“When you are in our position the very least you do is give everything you have got.
“If you are short and the opposition are better than you – then that’s fine.
“That’s football, but you can’t be short of your input into the game and I didn’t think we did what we could’ve done."
“It was bitterly disappointing,” he continued.
“We - myself included - were found wanting today. It wasn’t good enough and those are the performances that keep you where you are.
“There was nothing brave, nothing inspiring. You can go through every area on the pitch and we were lacking.”