Sunderland reached the FA Cup quarter-finals on Saturday as they beat Southampton 1-0 in the fifth round at the Stadium of Light.

The decisive moment came five minutes into the second half when Craig Gardner found the net from long range with a ferocious effort that flew in off the crossbar.

Both sides created chances in the final stages, but the Black Cats held on to seal their progress in the competition.

Here, Sports Mole takes a closer look at the action between the two teams on Wearside.

Match statistics

Sunderland
Shots: 11
On target: 4
Possession: 48%
Corners: 5
Fouls: 3

Southampton
Shots: 9
On target: 2
Possession: 52%
Corners: 6
Fouls: 15

Was the result fair?

This was far from a classic FA Cup tie, but Sunderland did just about enough to warrant their place in the next round. The match had the potential to be a thrilling contest considering what was at stake, although some uninspired play from both teams made sure that was not the case.

Sunderland's performance

This was fairly standard from the Black Cats as they worked hard and stifled their opponents to get the win. Gus Poyet's side were wasteful in attack, but they impressed in defence and midfield to frustrate Southampton. Had they had their shooting boots on, then there could have been one or two more goals in it for them. That said, a win is a win at this stage of the competition and Sunderland are sure to give anyone a run for their money from here on in.

Southampton's performance

This was a peculiar display from the Saints as manager Mauricio Pochettino opted to rest a number of key players. That certainly hampered their usual free-flowing style of football, with a lack of inventiveness and ambition defining their afternoon. They were able to dominate during periods of the match, but they never really threatened Sunderland on a consistent basis. The team is safe from relegation in the Premier League, so why not go for it in the cup? Only Pochettino will be able to answer that.

Sports Mole's man of the match

Craig Gardner: The Sunderland midfielder lit up a drab afternoon with his superb goal from long range. Not only that, but he also did the simple things with minimum fuss and kept the ball moving in midfield.

Biggest gaffe

Southampton had a wonderful chance to get level late on, but Rickie Lambert somehow fired over the crossbar from about four yards following Nathaniel Clyne's cross. The striker has been in sensational form this season, and you would have put your life savings on him converting such a simple opportunity.

Referee performance

Mike Dean was right to turn down a penalty for the hosts early in the first half and went on to have a decent display out in the middle. He officiated with decisiveness and authority, showing little fear in getting out his yellow card during what was an occasionally-feisty contest.

What next?

Sunderland: The Black Cats continue their Premier League campaign next Saturday when they travel to the Emirates Stadium to face Arsenal.

Southampton: The Saints are back in Premier League action next Saturday with a trip to West Ham United.