Sunderland ended their run of four consecutive defeats with their 0-0 draw at Arsenal.
Steve Bruce was pleased his players produced the required standard in testing circumstances.
"We needed a response after last week when we were shocking," he said.
"We have been hit by injuries, but the response today was terrific in the first half especially.
"There were a few hairy moments in the second half, but overall I think we deserved something from it.
"If you come here you need your defenders and goalkeeper to play well, and that is what they have done."
