Anthony Stokes provided the inspiration for Sunderland as David Connolly's first-half winner secured a crucial Championship victory against Ipswich.

Stokes, 18, was handed his debut after signing for the Black Cats this week in a £2million deal from Arsenal.

And he took less than 15 minutes to make a significant contribution, showing great skill to reach the byline and produce a low cross which Connolly duly dispatched.

Connolly's sixth goal in his last 11 appearances proved just enough for Roy Keane's men and further enhanced their status as serious promotion contenders.