Brazilian striker Ilan's second goal in as many games moved West Ham four points clear of the Premier League relegation zone on this day in 2010.
After a tense first half, Gianfranco Zola's Hammers lifted the mood at the Boleyn Ground, breaching the Sunderland defence on 51 minutes.
Manuel da Costa's long free-kick was flicked on by Carlton Cole, straight into the path of Ilan, who poked home.
The 29-year-old, who had dived to head a dramatic equaliser at Everton in West Ham's previous fixture, would score four goals in eleven appearances in Claret and Blue following his January move from French club Saint Etienne.
West Ham would finish the 2009/10 season in 17th place, just one place and five points above the relegation zone.
