Breen passes reserves test.

Sunderland skidded to their third consecutive defeat in the blizzard conditions at freezing Ewen Fields last night.

Out of favour winger John Oster had Sunderland's best opportunities in a lively opening 45 minutes. He was, however, guilty of poor finishing.

Firstly, he was clean through on goal, and then he was unlucky to see a well-struck shot from the edge of the box tipped over by City keeper Casper Schmeichel, the son of former Danish legend Peter.

Republic of Ireland international Gary Breen was given an hour's run-out in his rehabilitation following a knee injury picked up against Coventry in November last year and put himself in contention for a first-team return.

He was presented with an opportunity on 30 minutes but his header from an Oster free-kick went over the bar.

Sunderland had further opportunities through top scorer Michael Proctor, who also hit the woodwork.

Sunderland, despite enjoying large spells of possession, fell behind on 33 minutes when Bradley Wright-Phillips fired under the body of Michael Ingham and their misery was further compounded two minutes before half time when the defence was caught flat-footed and Willo Flood finished the move he had started from his own half.

Sunderland failed to find any rhythm in the second period and had to thank Ingham in keeping the scoreline down when he denied Wright-Phillips. But the game finally passed of their reach in 78 minutes when City striker Elliott completed scoring. Neil Teggart had late shot blocked as Sunderland rallied.

SUNDERLAND RESERVES: Ingham, Ramsden, James, Dickman, Clarke, Breen (Collins, 60), Scott (Teggart, 74), Thornton, Oster, Proctor, Cooper (Huntley, 60). Sub not used: Black.

MANCHESTER CITY RESERVES: Schmeichel, Flood, Jordan, Onouha, McCarthy, Bischoff (Warrender, 671), Croft, J D'laryea, Elliott, B Wright-Phillips, Tiatto (Tandy, 17). Subs not used: Matthewson, Laird, Murphy.

Attendance: 401.