Paul Harrison had another good game in goal for the reserves as did Jon Ostemobor, who has adjusted well to a new midfield role since coming back from Crewe.
Reserve regulars Darren Potter, David Raven, David Mannix and Ritchie Partridge all impressed with Potter and Partridge both coming close to breaking the deadlock for the Reds.
Zak Whitbread was the reserves' best player on the night, impressing Hugh McAuley who gave him the captaincy for the first time.
McAuley said: "Zak has had a very good season, made his first team debut, and I just wanted to give him a bit more responsibility with the captain's armband. I thought Zak was very consistent in his game against Sunderland as he won most of his headers, put a foot in and used the ball nice and early. I thought he did very well."