Stoke can set the tone for a better season

Sorba Thomas scored on his Stoke City debut against Derby

Stoke City got exactly the start they needed on day one of the Championship season.

The first half promised much, Stoke were dominant, had more than 70% of the ball and looked comfortable in defence. It seemed like a matter of time before the deadlock was broken.

That it was Derby who got the first goal was a surprise that brought back bad memories. Too often last season Stoke threatened throughout games but ultimately lost because they weren't clinical enough in the final third.

This new Stoke side feels different already. They were more intense, dynamic and determined to play on the front foot than the team we saw last season and Lewis Baker's quick equaliser kept the crowd on board.

The fans will play a part this season and were loud from the minute Steven Nzonzi came out to wave before kick-off as he begins a second spell at the club with a 2018 World Cup winner's medal to show for his travels.

The volume from the stands was rewarded with a Divin Mubama header from a brilliant Tatsuki Seko cross and a goal from fellow debutant Sorba Thomas, assisted by another new signing in Jamie Donley.

Mubama's movement and work rate was excellent throughout and Aaron Cresswell added his calm experience in addition to quality delivery from out wide as all of the new signings impressed.

An EFL Cup tie at home to lower division opposition (Walsall) and an away game against troubled Sheffield Wednesday gives The Potters the opportunity to turn a great opening day into a an opening week that sets the tone for a much better season.