The Black Cats went behind through the Bees' Igor Thiago before Granit Xhaka and Wilson Isidor struck for the hosts.
“I am happy and we went until the end,” he said.
“We tried to win this game and it was really positive, the way we managed the game with two different halves.
“We controlled the first half without scoring or creating too many chances.
“The second half was chaotic, but these are two important parts of the same game. We showed a good ability to manage the second half and that was really positive.
“It was good for Wilson and his family - two incredible days.
“I told the players from the beginning of the season that we will have starters and finishers, and that was really important today because in the Premier League we are always on the edge.
“Fine margins are everywhere, so if you can give this extra high energy then you can change the momentum - and that was the case today.
“The story of the game had different moments which are important, and sometimes one decision can change everything.”
“We need everyone,” he continued.
“Enzo was a bit disappointed that he didn’t start in either of our first two games, but he worked hard when he came on and today he started and showed his commitment to score and play a key role.”