United were across at the Academy of Light on Monday afternoon as a mixture of youth and first team squad members came up against a strong Sunderland side.
The Black Cats were four goals to the good at half time, but United picked up their game to bag a goal after the break courtesy of second-year attacking midfielder Taylor Charters.
Assistant manager Gavin Skelton said: "It was a good workout for the lads against what was a very strong Sunderland outfit.
"They were very impressive in the first half, but we were pleased with the reaction of our lads after the break as we got to grips with the game a little bit more.
"These games are always important as we look to keep everybody in the squad match fit, and we have to say thanks to Sunderland for hosting us this afternoon."
United - Gray, Hayden, Mellish, Branthwaite, Birch (Barnes), Sagaf, Lightfoot (Walton), Charters, Bell (Armstrong), Olomola, Kerr (Wilson). Sub - Robinson.