Michael Appleton’s side can have no complaints with the result having been second best for the majority of the game.
Here’s how Blackpool’s players performed at the bet365 Stadium...
7. Matty Virtue - 5/10
Made a couple of driving runs from midfield but otherwise ineffectual. Replaced at the half-time break. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
8. Sonny Carey - 5/10
Got into some good areas in the final third on the odd occasion, but otherwise struggled to make an impact. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
9. Josh Bowler - 7/10
The only man that looked likely to make something happen. Curled just wide after one of his mazy runs down the right. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
10. Jerry Yates - 6/10
More lively when shifted into his usual central position but still struggled to get himself into the game at times. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
11. Gary Madine - 6/10
Hard to give him a rating after the striker limped off early doors, exchanging some words with Appleton as he walked off. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
12. SUB: Theo Corbeanu - 6/10
For Madine, 22
Lost track of his man for Stoke’s opener but looked dangerous in attack with his direct running down the left wing. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth