Stoke City boss Tony Pulis admits they weren't at their best for yesterday's 0-0 FA Cup draw with Crystal Palace.

Pulis was relieved to still be in the hat for the FA Cup fourth round.

"When the draw was made we know this would be a very tough fixture especially away from home," said Pulis.

"We have just come off the back of four very tough Premier League games. This is a tough ground to come to and they are a top Championship side.

"They played really well. They've got some dangerous players in their team and we are pleased with the result. They are a good side, Ian Holloway's got them well-motivated and it was always going to be difficult.

"I was bringing on players like Kenwyne Jones, Cameron Jerome and Charlie Adam to try to win the game. But both teams are in the draw so that's something to look forward to."