The Blades looked to be in control of the game in the first half when Dan Neil saw red for bringing down league debutant James McAtee, before Ahmedhodzic headed home the opener from Ollie Norwood's corner just moments later.
The Blades doubled their advantage in the second half when Max Lowe tapped home following a beautiful move, but Lynden Gooch’s excellent chipped finish gave the Black Cats some hope of nicking a point before the full-time whistle, after seven minutes of injury time, sealed United’s second win of the season.
Here’s how we rated the Blades’ players …
13. Subs: John Fleck 6
Came on for McAtee and enabled Berge to play higher Photo: Owen Humphreys
14. Reda Khadra 7.5
Replaced Brewster and a good early run down the left channel had Blades fans off their seats and singing his name. Looked very lively and determined to make a mark, flying into tackles to win the ball as well as use it well Photo: Andrew Yates
15. Oli McBurnie 6.5
'If McBurnie scores, we're on the pitch' chanted the Kop after he came on and they almost got their wish when he had a good chance but Patterson saved comfortably. Forced a very good save from Patterson later on and was booked for delaying the goalkeeper's kick, to applause from the fans Photo: Simon Bellis