Pulis returns to inspire Stoke’s win

Stoke manager Tony Pulis’s emotional return to the dug-out after his mother’s death inspired his side to a dramatic 2-1 win against Aston Villa last night.

Pulis missed the first half of the Britannia Stadium clash following his elderly mother’s passing earlier in the day, but he decided to return to work in time for the second period and his dedication sparked a remarkable response from his players.

Stoke had been out-played for much of the first half and went behind after 35 minutes.

Gabriel Agbonlahor curled a cross towards Steward Downing at the far post and the England international headed the ball past Thomas Sorensen.

But the Potters roared back after the interval and they managed to draw level ten minutes from time when Kenwyne Jones rose perfectly to meet Matthew Etherington’s cross and head the ball into the back of the net.

With just seconds of stoppage time left to play, Villa failed to clear a free-kick and Huth was cool enough to flick Etherington’s pass into the roof of the net.

Pulis celebrated Huth’s goal with a joyous jig on the touchline before sprinting down the tunnel as soon as the final whistle blew.

For Villa, there was only frustration at tossing away the lead in the first match since the appointment of Gerard Houllier as Martin O’Neill’s successor.