A good win

Kevin Kyle's 68th minute goal separated the sides and the Black Cats boss paid tribute to the goalscorer after the game.

"To come to Bramall Lane at any time and win is a good win," McCarthy said after the 1-0 victory.

"They work hard and you know they're going to keep going right to the end.

And on the Sunderland goalscorer, McCarthy remarked: "He's worked hard at his game and he's getting his rewards."