TONY PULIS reflected on the contrasting emotions for matchwinner Ricardo Fuller after his fabulous goal earned Stoke City their third away win of the season . . . and moved them to the brink of their initial 40-point target in the Barclays Premier League.

Fuller produced a stunning strike to decide the triumph over West Ham a couple of minutes after being introduced as a second half substitute on the ground where he was sent off for a clash with team-mate Andy Griffin in the corresponding fixture last season.

"There's a lot of emotions in football and I'm really pleased for Ricardo today," said Pulis after seeing his side condemn the Hammers to a sixth successive defeat.

"We've had food poisoning in the camp which Ric actually brought in and I think he's had it on and off for a while, although that goal will certainly make him feel better.

"He started last week against Tottenham and wasn't right, but was happy to start from the bench today and then come on, and for him to come on and do that is brilliant."

Pulis added: "Matty Etherington has had it as well but we were desperate to get him on the pitch against his old club as playing against your old side always gives you a lift.

"Ric's goal is there for the world to see and I hope all the fans around the world get onto the website tomorrow and watch it because it is a special one."

The Potters climbed into the top half of the table with the win, and now have 39 points, one short of the manager's initial target to secure their safety.

"We're very pleased," said Pulis. "It was a great performance by the lads and we're getting closer to the target that we set ourselves.

"Now we've to get to 40 points as quick as possible and then onto 46 to beat last season's tally. Only one club has beaten their first season's tally in the Premier League the second season round, which is incredible really, so we're aiming to get there and do that."