Matthew Etherington believes it was clear which team was going to win at the Britannia Stadium on Saturday.

The winger produced a bit of quality that settled a poor game in Stoke's favour, a week after the Potters turned over Swansea – and Etherington was happy to take the plaudits.

'This has put us up to eighth and is a big result for us,' he said. 'We knew these last two home games were important so to get six points from them is perfect.

'We have some big games coming up now, none more so than the quarter final of the FA Cup. It's a big few weeks. But the last couple of weeks have also been important and we have pulled it out. Hopefully, we can keep going, get into a bit of form and really push on for the last bit of the season.

'Norwich were decent and they were organised. I thought we were the better side though. I know it probably wasn't the best game to watch but if anyone was going to win the game I think it was us. I think that was plain to see.

'I'm just happy we got the win in the end. It's not been happening for me for one reason or another. You get that sometimes and I am as frustrated as the fans are.

'It was nice to score and get the win. I was angry with myself for not shooting beforehand, that's probably why I just put my foot through it. It was out of anger more than anything but I caught it well.'