Pulis dismayed after stalemate

Stoke boss Tony Pulis admitted his frustration after seeing his side held to a goalless home draw by Sunderland in what was the Potters' sixth stalemate in nine Barclays Premier League games so far this season.

In a contest of few clear-cut chances, the hosts posed the greater attacking threat but were unable to make a breakthrough and once again had to settle for a point.

Reflecting on his team's performance, Pulis said: "We went to win the game. I thought Sunderland defended really well and that their goalkeeper (Simon Mignolet) was outstanding. We needed a break. I've just looked at a few of the set-plays in the first half and how two of them stay out, I just don't know."

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