"Sunderland are the best side we have played but we were not at the races today. We did not pass the ball well - we would have needed radar to find our front two.
"We were well beaten. I have an honest bunch of lads and while I am not blaming the referee for the defeat, I think Mick will be the more pleased with his performance.
"Sunderland are a powerful side and I expect the stronger sides like them, Leeds and Leicester to do well in the second half of the season."
Meanwhile Sunderland boss Mick McCarthy was understandably delighted with his sides display: "That was a massive win for us. I thought we played very, very well and deserved to win the game - I can't imagine Joe saying anything different.
"I thought we had well enough in the first half not to be making changes but I had a few words with Jeff Whitley at half-time and when he said he had a hamstring problem, the decision was made for me.
"Liam Lawrence came on and had a bit of joy down the flanks but what I have got is players working as a team, they are all mates having a go for each other.''