So much of the talk before kick-off centred on the planned protests by Wednesday fans desperate to see an end to the problems that have blighted their club's summer.
In the end, Stoke managed to silence most of the whistles and boos pouring down from the crowd aimed at Wednesday owner Dejphon Chansiri by scoring early, right in the middle of the supporters' intended demonstration.
From the moment Million Manhoef gave Stoke the lead the result seemed set.
For him personally, it was a reminder of what he can do, with new arrivals Sorba Thomas, Jamie Donley and Lamine Cisse all set to threaten the Dutchman's place in the side.