Asmir Begovic - 7 - Had very little to do but made one comfortable save and distribution was good
Andy Wilkinson - 8(Man of the Match) - Great positional play and some superb slide tackles, all perfectly timed. Great way to bring up his 100th start for the club
Marc Wilson - 7 - Solid as ever at full back nothing got past him but in truth not a lot came his way
Ryan Shawcross - 8 - Made some great interceptions, blocked off a couple of crosses and one perfectly times tackle to deny Split going one on one late on. Also had a header cleared off the line.
Robert Huth - 7 - Was solid in defence and got involved at set pieces but saw two snap shots blocked by defenders and also headed wide on a trio of occasions
Jermaine Pennant - 7 - Ran and ran and ran to try and give the potters daylight in the tie. Some superb deliveries causing problems but none could be finished off. Was kicked about by the opposition before being subbed as he tired
Matthew Etherington - 7 - Great start, getting a few crosses in and setting up the goal, and ended the game well but was dreadful either side of half time, showing rustiness although that can be expected at this time
Glenn Whelan - 7 - Got stuck in and looked like he was carrying on last seasons good form. Tired after the hour mark but not alone there
Rory Delap - 8 - Covered every blade of grass and broke up countless attacks. Good vision to spread the play for the goal
Jon Walters - 8 - Scored a good early header and ran himself into the ground. Tired late on but showed more goopd signs up front with Jones
Kenwyne Jones - 8 - Had a great game in the air, had a goal disallowed for offside and linked up well with Walters
Dean Whitehead - 6 - Made one forceful tackle and had a shot blocked on the edge of the area but didn't do anything else of note
Ryan Shotton - 6 - Little time on the field, and playing up front, but tried to make himself a nuisance