Positives for Stoke despite cup loss

[Getty Images] Despite a good start from Hull, Stoke spent much of the first half in the ascendancy and deserved to take the lead through a well worked goal from Robert Bozenik, but conceding just before half-time robbed them of their momentum and they didn't ever really get it back. The Premier League visitors weren't great, they'd made eleven changes but missed several chances in a poor spectacle of a second half before sneaking through on penalties. The big positives for Stoke came in the form of minutes for players who have been on the fringes of things so far and an impressive debut from teenager Laurence Giani. The 18-year-old full back kept things simple in the early stages before growing in confidence and showing more of the ability that's earned him international honours with Italy at youth level. He looked strong enough and calm enough to provide a realistic option in a problem position for Stoke due to injuries and has been training with and around the first team for some time. The likes of Djibril Soumare, Ben Pearson and Bozenik will benefit from the game time they got against Hull but attention will quickly turn to what feels like a far bigger game at Wolves in the league. Stoke travel to Molineux searching for a first Championship point of the season in a campaign that needs a big performance and result to give it the kick start they need. Latest Stoke City news, analysis and fan views