Evans shows his class and Pritchard adds extra invention: Morecambe 0-1 Sunderland player ratings

Sunderland made sure of a play-off place with a win at Morecambe on the final day. The Black Cats went into the game at the Mazuma Stadium knowing that a win would clinch a top six finish regardless of results elsewhere, and they achieved their objective under their own steam.

Nathan Broadhead scored the only goal early in the game before he limped off before half-time. Sunderland could have extended their lead in the second half but were unable to convert the chances they fashioned, but in the end a single goal was enough.

They end the season in fifth place in League One, and will face fourth-placed Sheffield Wednesday in the play-off semi-final with the first leg at the Stadium of Light on Friday, and the second leg at Hillsborough the following Monday. it is the third time in four years that Sunderland have been involved in the play-offs.

Here's how James Hunter rated the Sunderland players.

Didn't have a shot to save, but was calm when fielding the ball

Strong on the right side of the back three, he did not give an inch

The lynchpin of the defence, he snuffed out the threat from Stockton

Played on the left side of the back three and did well when needed

Worked hard in the right wingback position

A class act in the middle of the park, he reads the game so well and he provided the assist for the goal

Always available in midfield and showed good workrate

Got forward whenever he could but too often his final ball was lacking. Brought a couple of saves out of Carson in the second half

Back in the starting line-up and he brought some extra invention to the side

Scored the all-important goal before his involvement was cut short by injury

Very little service to work with but still offered a focal point

For Broadhead