In need of a reaction, Alonso introduced the effervescent Estevao to the mix, but the change didn't have the required impact. Sunderland stuck to their guns and not only competed with the two-time European champions, but took the game to them too. More subs came and went, but Alonso was unable to inspire a Chelsea comeback, with the west Londoners heading into the international break with just one win in their last four outings. Here Express Sport hand out player ratings...

Mike Penders - 6

Has grown into the No.1 role following his shaky start vs Tottenham last month. Much more commanding.

Marco Palestra - 4

Tough watch. Looked like a fish out of water throughout a tough afternoon on Wearside.

On his heels while defending and far too clunky in possession. Colwill was the one hooked at half-time, but Alonso could've picked either of the Chelsea centre-backs.

Levi Colwill - 3

Got run ragged by Brobbey in the first half and paid the price by being hooked at the break. Wrongsided for the penalty decision and while he'll argue Brobbey was pulling his shirt at the same time, his positioning was poor to begin with.

Pep Chavarria - 5

By no means the worst member of that Chelsea backline, but it wasn't spectacular by any means.

Moises Caicedo - 5

Had a tough battle on his hands in midfield, but was moved to centre-back after the restart.

Romeo Lavia - 5

Superb vs Manchester United last weekend, but less polished at the Stadium of Light. Was given the runaround by his Sunderland counterparts.

Jordan Henderson - 4

Playing in his 700th career match, but one that won't live long in the memory for anything he did on the pitch. Was tormented by his Sunderland counterparts, who were faster, fitter, and stronger.

Morgan Rogers - 2

It could've been a much different afternoon for the Blues had the ex-Aston Villa man put the ball in the back of the net at 0-0. He's certainly scored harder chances during his Premier League career, and it was a sign of things to come. One of his worst outings in a Chelsea shirt.

Could've maybe earned a penalty of his own, but a VAR review adjudged the foul took place outside the penalty area. After that though, it was like Chelsea were playing with 10 men. For the amount of the ball Chelsea saw in the match, it's inexcusable how little the England international did with it.

Yet to properly convince in the false-nine role during Joao Pedro's absence, but was a willing runner throughout the match. Can't see Alonso's persisting with this method much longer.

Substitutes:

Estevao - 5

Expected so much more from him after coming on at half-time. Far too indecisive with his dribbles and became easy to defend against. Put in a wicked delivery for Danny Welbeck's late chance, but that was about it.

Danny Welbeck - 5

Should be starting matches while Pedro is out injured. By the time he came on, Sunderland had already retreated and the space was nonexistent. His first chance came in the 92nd minute, and the ex-Brighton man fluffed his lines.

Malo Gusto - 5

Geovany Quenda - 5

Flashsed a cross-cum-shot wide but that was about it.