The Black Cats fell behind in the 25th minute when Mads Frokjaer’s effort deflected into Sunderland’s net off Will Keane, as goalkeeper Anthony Patterson was wrong-footed.
Sunderland responded well, as Jack Clarke won and converted a penalty just six minutes later, but couldn’t maintain their momentum in the second half.
Frokjaer then scored the winner just before the hour mark after a low finish past goalkeeper Anthony Patterson.
Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players at Deepdale:
1. Anthony Patterson - 6
Did fairly well when played into trouble on a few occasions by his team mates. Again two goals that he probably couldn’t have done much about, particularly the first which was a wicked deflection. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
2. Trai Hume - 5
Not as influential on the ball in the first two games as he was for so much of last season. One of a few not at their sharpest. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
3. Dan Ballard - 5
Started really powerfully but was a frustrated figure in the second half as Sunderland laboured. Couldn’t fully cut out a pass for the second goal, allowing Frokjaer to strike. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
4. Luke O’Nien - 5
Some loose passes caused Sunderland trouble, though there were also some excellent bits of play. Defensively did OK, with the two goals mainly because of midfield lapses. Almost scored a header in the second half. 5 Photo: Frank Reid