Stoke City had edged out Tranmere Rovers to reach the fourth round of the League Cup.
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Stephen Ireland's 23rd-minute strike put the Potters in front at Prenton Park, although the hosts were certainly not overawed by their Premier League visitors.
It was Glenn Whelan's through-ball that unlocked the Rovers defence, allowing the Irish midfield to run clear and beat Owain Fon Williams.
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Peter Crouch had a chance to double his team's lead in the 32nd minute but could not find the net from six yards out.
Ronnie Moore's men battled hard in the second half but it was Mark Hughes's side who looked the more likely to score in the second period.
Their persistence finally paid off in the fourth minute of injury time, with Crouch getting his name on the scoresheet.
Michael Penkman
