Elliott Dickman believes the signs from the development team's pre-season are positive ones ahead of the new season.
Sunderland under-23s clocked up another 90 minutes on Saturday as they edged past Huddersfield Town in a behind closed door friendly at the Academy of Light.
Ethan Robson scored the game’s only goal midway through the second period, calmly dispatching a penalty after Andrew Nelson was fouled.
Dickman’s side held out to secure victory to issue the perfect response following last Wednesday’s defeat to Sheffield Wednesday, which saw the young Black Cats let their 2-1 lead slip in the second period.
Speaking to safc.com, Dickman delivered his honest verdict.
“I was pleased with the simple things we did,” he said.
“I thought we worked hard and we got on the second balls well. We closed down well and the shape looked quite good.
“Some of our play was quite composed and the quality was better than in previous games. We didn’t start particularly great and it was a bit fast but once it settled down I thought we did smashing.
“There were a couple of little scares but we were generally quite in control of the game,” he continued.
“Jack Diamond has been one of the most consistent ones but he is only young.
“He has done terrific but we are starting to get one or two back, Luke Molyneux is back in full training now as well.
“Rees (Greenwood) will hopefully be back in the next couple of weeks so hopefully we will be in a better place to help create chances.”