Scott Dann and Femi Azeez continued their road toward first team action with minutes in the tank for the Under 21s.

Dann managed almost an hour, his first game minutes of the season, while Azeez lasted until 75 minutes.

On the wrong end of a 2-1 scoreline to Graeme Murty's Black Cats, how did the two first teamers do?

Scott Dann

The first appearance since his long lay-off sustained last campaign, the experienced defender managed his return comfortably.

Never forced to truly stretch, the 35-year-old eased himself back and looked in control.

Conceding twice with the former Crystal Palace centre-half on the pitch, he was not particularly at fault for either and will move into the next game with his head high.

With over 500 professional games under his belt, the Liverpool-born defender will hope to be back in Championship action soon.

Femi Azeez

Another yet to feature for Paul Ince this season, Azeez impressed in pre-season before damaging his hamstring in the build-up to the curtain raiser against Blackpool.

An explosive forward, the Academy graduate was a the heart of every attack for the Royals in the first half.

Regularly in strong position, he could have done better on ocassion and test the keeper.

Rarely forcing the stopper into a save, there is still room for improvement, but he hasn;t lost his burst of pace and he can help make things happen.