Stoke avoid another FA Cup fourth-round upset with 4-1 win over Rochdale

Stoke City thrashed League One side Rochdale 4-1 to avoid another FA Cup fourth-round upset and advance to the fifth-round.

The Premier League side took an early lead in the fourth minute with a stunning volley from Bojan Krkic before a neat finish from substitute Stephen Ireland after half-time doubled their lead.

Stoke were in control with a driven Victor Moses goal just after the hour mark. Rochdale replied by a Rhys Bennett striker from close range in the 78th minute to score a goal against a dominant Mark Hughes' side, the BBC reported.

However, Jon Walters made sure of victory for Stoke by tapping home in stoppage time to help them thrash Rochdale 4-1.

Stoke, losing finalists in 2011, would travel to Championship team Blackburn in the fifth round.

Rochdale boss Keith Hill claimed that they tried to attack with intent and press the opposition but admitted that they are an excellent side. He said that the game is marginal no matter where one stands in the pyramid.

Hill claimed that fair play to Stoke, adding that they were worthy winners in the end. He said that the Krkic goal was a great piece of skill but it didn't frighten them.

Stoke manager Mark Hughes said that they got the job done but credit to Rochdale, adding that in the first half they found it difficult. He claimed that they had a great goal from Krkic, which helped them and in the second half they got to grips with Rochdale and turned it around.

Hughes said that they look forward to going to Blackburn now, adding that they would take a huge following there.