The 2003-04 campaign delivered a vital season of consolidation for Stoke City, with The Potters finishing a respectable 11th in the First Division under manager Tony Pulis. After a turbulent start, the team pulled away from relegation danger with a crucial nine-match unbeaten run following a December victory over West Ham United. Leading the charge for goals were the powerful attacking duo of Ade Akinbiyi and Gifton Noel-Williams, who each netted 10 crucial league goals, spearheading a campaign that secured the club's status in the second tier.