Charlie Wyke’s brave header had handed the Black Cats a second half lead, but Callum Connolly thumped home a leveller to ensure the spoils were shared.
But which players emerged from the clash with credit, and who has work to do?
Scroll down and click through the pages as Phil Smith dishes out his ratings from the draw at Highbury:
1. Anthony Patterson
Little he could do about either goal as Sunderland lost their way either side of three defensive injuries. Made a couple of smart stops early on. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
2. Brandon Taylor
Comfortably his best performance of the Trophy campaign so far. Made good decisions on the ball and battled well defensively. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
3. Jordan Willis
Understandably rusty early on, but improved considerably in what was a commanding first-half display. Looked leggy late on during what was a good run-out ahead of his return against MK Dons on Saturday. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
4. Oliver Younger
Was so unlucky to see a thumping header from Embleton’s free-kick hit the underside of the bar early on. One or two nervous moments in possession but generally defended aggressively and with quality. A real shame injury forced him off before half time after such a solid debut. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2020