Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris made six alterations from the team that suffered their first home loss this season, a narrow defeat to Liverpool, for what could have been a testing trip to Oxford United.

It may have taken Diarra’s penalty, hotly-contested by Oxford’s players and the home support, to settle the contest but there was no dispute that Sunderland, lying 11th in the Premier League were worthy winners.

The Black Cats could have added more in the second half, but for fine work by home keeper Ingram, who made the most of a rare start.

Sunderland’s travelling support were rain-soaked but delighted at the final whistle when the sun finally shone on Oxford, following another satisfactory result in a fine season.

As for Oxford United, this was respite from their troubled season in the Championship, where they face a real struggle to avoid the drop, with head coach Matt Bloomfield and his team facing a desperate fight for survival.

They can take some heart from defeat here, however, as they were in the game until the final whistle despite relying on keeper Ingram to ensure the visitors did not extend their lead.

In many respects, this was a free hit for Oxford, but aspects of this performance will offer encouragement, as will the warm reception their supporters gave them at the final whistle.