Positives for me:
Carson - it looks as though the time out of the side has done him good, Stoke is going to be one of the most difficult games in the league for goalkeepers, he dealt well with balls into the box all night, a few kicks went astray but he's clearly been instructed to aim for the flanks so thats understandable. Perhaps he could have done better for the goal but so should Dorrans, 50-50 on the blame for that one.
Reid - we all knew he was solid and dependable but what was most suprising is that he gave us an option going forward. Deserved his man of the match last night. I'm a fan of Jara, I don't think he's done too much wrong for us but if Reid is fit he should play.
Meite - I'm sure I read somewhere that Roy said he was the best defender at the club? Certainly performed like it last night, was dominant in the air against Kenwyne Jones and John Carew. I'd of given him the man of match, top performance considering he had been out for so long. Another who should definately keep his place for Saturday.
Scharner - glad Roy decided not to move him back to centre-half. Not convinced by him in that position. He offers more in midfield that many people realise as well, provided us with a good physical presence and is a danger from set pieces. His partnership with Mulumbu works well even if it means we have to sacrifice and attacking player.
Vela - stil unsure whether he should be used from the start? Wouldn't like to see him upfront on his own particularly I don't think he holds the ball up as well as Fortune or Odemwingie. Perhaps bring him in down the left in place of Thomas who has been wasteful of late.
Fortune - started slowly but played well second half. He holds the ball up well and as the game went on he offered more and more of a goal threat.
Most importantly for me as a group they looked like they were fighting for one another, it appears that Roy has got them battling again. Last night could prove a real turning point, the players look like they believe in Hodgson and believe in his tactics, cause for renewed optimism all round I think.