However it was another new signing, Shay Given , that earned the managers praise after the 1-0 win.
"Shay Given at times had to produce what he is capable of," Hughes said after the match.
"I'm delighted with the way he has been able to come in and hit the ground running. We benefited from his experience.
"I think on the balance of play we deserved to win.
"We created good chances and took the one that won us the game."