Pulis pleased with point

Pulis: Happy with Stoke's hard work.

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Stoke manager Tony Pulis hailed the work ethic of his side after they held high-flying Aston Villa to a 0-0 draw and nearly sneaked a victory in the second half.

The Potters bombarded the Villa defence with long-throws and set-pieces and created the better chances in a hard-fought stalemate at a blustery Britannia Stadium.

Pulis was particularly impressed with his side's endeavour considering it was their third match in seven days, and hailed their fitness levels after another hard-working display.

He said: "I think the last 35 minutes we took the game to them, but it's been a tough week for us with three games.

"We've had a mid-week game away from home then playing here against one of the best sides in the league.

"It was always a big ask for the players and towards the end of the game we looked like the team that might nick it.

"The fitness levels at the club are amazing and we have lads who will keep at it and keep having a go.

"Both teams went at it and showed great determination and great attitude and commitment.

Sensational

Super-sub Ricardo Fuller nearly scored the winning goal with a sensational run past three Villa defenders in the second half, but came unstuck when faced by goakeeper Brad Friedel.

Fuller's influence, as well as the introduction of Dave Kitson, helped the home side gain a foothold in the game in the second period.

Fuller came on for the out-of-sorts Tuncay, who immediately stormed off down the tunnel in protest.

However, Pulis is adamant that no-one is bigger than the club and he makes his team selection based on performances.

"As a manager I am not concerned about names, what names you bring off and what names you bring on, it's about the team," Pulis stated

"If I don't think it's right on the day I will make changes and as a manager you have to be strong enough to do that."

Pulis was quick to praise Fuller's resilience, as the Jamaican managed to feature after suffering a couple of setbacks in the run-up to the game.

The Potters boss added: "Fuller missed the game on Wednesday, jarred his back in training and has had a touch of flu in the last few days as well.

"So for him to come on and play for 40 minutes, it changed the game for us."