After a 4-0 opening day hammering of Plymouth Argyle at Hillsborough saw hopes of a season of non-stop sensation lifted through the roof, a defeat by the same score line at Sunderland delivered a slap to the face to remind Owls fans of the nature of the division.
Wednesday started the better of the two sides but saw the match turn on its head when Dennis Cirkin nodded in at the back post on the 11th minute. From there, the Black Cats dominated proceedings; Eliezer Mayenda and Luke O’Nien giving them a three-goal half-time lead before Mayenda bagged again to make it four.
The Owls simply couldn’t get themselves going and were well dealt with by the Wearsiders. Here are our ratings from a contrasting afternoon at the Stadium of Light.
9. Josh Windass - 4
He's get his share of pelters for the turnover of possession for the second goal. The fact is Wednesday are going to take calculated risks to break lines and the ricochet off O'Nein could have gone anywhere. We count him unlucky for that one. For the third, he was out of position and played O'Nien onside. One of those days. Off on 53 minutes. | UGC / Getty Images
10. Djeidi Gassama - 4
Simply couldn't get into the game. Was correctly called offside for the incident that saw an Owls goal disallowed - looking down the line, he should probably have done better. Off at half-time for Smith having made only 12 touches. | UGC / Steve Ellis
11. Jamal Lowe - 4
Barely in the game and was crowded out. Started down the middle and was pushed out onto the left. | SWFC / UGC
12. Michael Smith - 5
On at half-time for Gassama. Made himself known and played with aggression. In truth nothing quite came off. Have to wonder if there's a role there for him - early sub would suggest so. Missed a good late chance. | UGC / Getty Images