Chris Coleman lavished praise on his players while paying particular homage to his front two Joel Asoro and Josh Maja.
The Welshman’s team selection got plenty of teeth chattering ahead of kick-off as he opted to go with young attacking duo Maja and Asoro up top.
Ethan Robson was handed his first league start in replace of Marc Wilson while Jake Clarke-Salter made his home debut for the club.
And right from the word go Coleman was full of praise for his side as they sunk their teeth into the Tigers before Asoro buried his chance on 20 minutes.
Maja provided a lively option as well, toying with Hull’s backline while Billy Jones also offered an unlikely attacking threat in the final third at times.
Hull fought back after the interval but Sunderland struck to their jobs well and when their backline was breached – like in stoppage time when the ball fell to David Meyler – Robbin Ruiter was there to snuff the danger out and secure three vital points, plus another clean sheet.
“We didn’t continue that in the second half (last weekend) in the same vein and ended up losing heavily.
“I thought today the spirit was brilliant. The goal we scored – I don’t think any team I’ve ever managed have scored a goal as good as that.
“I thought it was absolutely fabulous. The passing, the movement and the finish was brilliant.
“There were one or two scary moments for us but until they had a really good chance it was all us.
“We set the tempo in the first half, we dictated things and I thought it was a very good performance.
“We know they are lively and we know they are young and inexperienced,” he continued.
“I thought young (Ethan) Robson was fantastic. Ideally, we shouldn’t be giving them as much exposure as we are in these games but it’s brilliant for them.
“The experience of the other boys pulled them through, they encouraged them, kept them going and supported them.
“All round the lads did a great job today.”
