Pulis proud of battling Potters

Stoke manager Tony Pulis praised referee Howard Webb for not buckling under pressure during his side's goalless draw at Anfield.

Apart from two Dirk Kuyt headers late in the second half the home side struggled to create chances, but World Cup final official Howard Webb was called on to make some difficult calls with substitute Andy Carroll going to the floor on more than one occasion in tussles in the penalty area

The South Yorkshire referee is by no means a favourite at Anfield and, although the Kop were unhappy with his decision-making, Pulis was not, and said of the penalty appeals: "I think it was more out of desperation."

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