'STOKE ON UPWARD CURVE'

Robins pleased with Potters' progress despite being held to a home weekend draw by Norwich

- Peter Smith

MARK Robins is convinced that Stoke City can continue their trajectory of progress as he acknowledges the sharp contrast between this season and last.

Stoke picked up their first draw of the season when they were held at home by Norwich - but Robins, pictured, was adamant that it was the most in-control performance during his time as manager, albeit without the cutting edge to claim all three points.

He insists there is still more to come from his squad as he now turns his attention to an away day at pace setters Middlesbrough tomorrow night.

“Absolutely,” he said. “They've got the bit between their teeth and know they are capable of performances at this level.

“This is a really early stage of the season. The signs have been pretty good. We're not going to win every game, clearly, as much as you'd love to.