Sunderland 2-3 Fulham: Cottagers win to set up fifth-round tie with Leeds United

Fulham saw off Championship play-off hopefuls Sunderland to set up an FA Cup fifth-round tie against Leeds United.

Harry Wilson's early goal put a much-changed Fulham side in control of the fourth-round replay, with the winger slotting his effort into the bottom corner with the outside of his boot after he was teed up by Carlos Vinícius.

Aleksandar Mitrovic and Andreas Pereira combined for Fulham's second goal just before the hour mark, when the Serbian striker did well to keep the ball in on the byline and touch it back for his fellow substitute to tap in.

Sunderland were given hope of a comeback inside the final 15 minutes when Jack Clarke curled a superb strike into the far corner following a pass from Ajibola Alese.

But Layvin Kurzawa re-established Fulham's two-goal lead in the 82nd minute, firing into the roof of the net following a knockdown from Shane Duffy.

With stoppage time approaching, substitute Jewison Bennette coolly lifted into the corner from close range to cut the deficit, but the Black Cats fell short despite a valiant effort.

Fulham boss Marco Silva, watching from the stands due to a touchline ban, said: "We've been working hard to reach this level and create a winning mentality.

"I knew before the game that it wouldn't be the best, I made nine changes, but we are pleased."

Substitutes seal deal for Fulham

Throughout the match, Sunderland showed why they have aims of returning to the Premier League and are just two points off the Championship play-off places as they put Fulham under serious pressure.

Amad Diallo was a bright spark for the home side, with his low shot cleared off the line by Duffy after he chopped inside and rifled a strike towards goal.

Patrick Roberts' effort deflected off Duffy and forced Marek Rodak into a smart save as Sunderland showed their attacking prowess despite missing striker Ross Stewart.

Wilson had two other opportunities for Fulham in the first half, but Anthony Patterson saved one effort following a fine solo run and he then placed his shot wide of the post after being sent through by captain Tom Cairney.

Silva's decision to bring on Mitrovic and Pereira increased the intensity from the visitors after the break and they showed the quality that has seen them climb to sixth in the top flight.

Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray said after the game: "I think the supporters deserve huge credit for keeping the players going. We're fighting for these people who come to support us.

"We started a bit tentatively but we pushed them and they finished with their strongest team really which I think is a credit to us."