Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris was pleased with his side's application despite a 1-0 defeat to Blackburn.
Tyrhys Dolan scored the only goal of the game for Rovers, securing a third straight win to keep their slim play-off hopes alive.
The Black Cats are guaranteed their top six spot but are winless in four. Le Bris still praised his players' effort.
"The energy was largely positive, the way we played. Disappointing result, positive performance," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.
"The opponent had a specific plan; only two shots and one goal. They were efficient and it wasn't the case for us.