Sunderland's Wembley weekend got off to a good start as automatic promotion rivals Barnsley only managed a 2-2 draw against Coventry.
The Tykes twice led at home to the Sky Blues but were unable to hold on either time to collect all three points.
With Sunderland not in league action for a second consecutive weekend (this time because of their Checkatrade Trophy final clash with Portsmouth on Sunday), Barnsley extended the gap between themselves and the Black Cats to six points.
However, it's major advantage Sunderland in the tight race for second place, with Jack Ross' side now having three games in hand over the Yorkshire side. Barnsley's goal difference is seven goals better off as things stand, however.
Sunderland also have three games in hand on league leaders Luton Town, but their chances of winning the League One title are slipping.
Luton beat Bristol Rovers 2-1 to move 13 points clear of Sunderland at the top. If Sunderland were to win their games in hand that would be cut to just four points, But the Hatters equalled a club record unbeaten run of 27 games by beating Rovers on Saturday.
Sunderland are fourth in the table, one point behind Portsmouth but with two games in hand over their Checkatrade final opponents, with Pompey still to come to the Stadium of Light next month too.
Elsewhere, it was a good weekend for a young Sunderland loanee too. Ethan Robson netted his first Dundee goal since arriving on loan there in January. It was mixed emotions though because they went on to lose 2-1 to Ross' former side St Mirren.
Hear the incredible noise that greeted Sunderland players as they arrived in London
