Pulis praise for Delap

Stoke boss Tony Pulis has hailed Rory Delap's long throws as an "important asset" to his side.

The Potters have scored five times after the Irishman's howitzers caused confusion in the opposition's defence and Pulis is making no apology for the tactic.

He told the BBC: "He's such an important asset for us and teams in the Premier League don't seem to be able to cope.

"Even Portsmouth, who have a big side, every time Rory threw the ball in they were frightened to death."