Three ups and one down from Sheffield Wednesday's 2-2 draw with Stoke City

Sheffield Wednesday displayed their fighting spirit, battling back from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw with Stoke City. Here are the highs and lows.
Sheffield Wednesday manager Jos Luhukay joins in the congratulations for Owls scorer Barry Bannan after his equaliserSheffield Wednesday manager Jos Luhukay joins in the congratulations for Owls scorer Barry Bannan after his equaliser
Sheffield Wednesday manager Jos Luhukay joins in the congratulations for Owls scorer Barry Bannan after his equaliser

Never-say-die attitude

No one can fault Wednesday's character or spirit following their stirring Stoke comeback. The Owls refused to give in despite falling two goals down at a stunned Hillsborough inside 22 minutes. The team dug deep and showed plenty of bottle, heart and determination to earn a point. 'Character and mentality is so important in the Championship,' acknowledged Owls boss Jos Luhukay.

Coach Lee Bullen congratulates Bannan after the final whistleCoach Lee Bullen congratulates Bannan after the final whistle
Coach Lee Bullen congratulates Bannan after the final whistle

Barry Bannan

He was an influential figure throughout and capped an outstanding performance with a stunning free-kick in the 82nd minute. The midfielder is arguably in the best form of his Wednesday career. Bannan has started to add goals to his all-round game. Luhukay said: 'Barry is a fantastic player and we all know how good he is. His performance was fantastic.' 

Wednesday fansWednesday fans
Wednesday fans

Hillsborough roar

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The atmosphere inside Hillsborough after the little magician that is Bannan levelled things up was incredible. The place erupted and it was a memorable moment which will live long in the memory. Luhukay's passionate, animated reaction on the touchline also spoke volumes. His team were outclassed in the opening stanza but they battled hard.

Sluggish start

It took Wednesday far too long to settle down and get going against a slick, expensively-assembled Stoke City. The Owls were off the pace and the Potters could have been in complete control had they taken all of their chances. Wednesday's can ill-afford to start so poorly in their forthcoming away double-header with promotion-chasing Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa.