Cotterill said: "It was a hot reception and fully expected. I don't blame the Stoke fans.
"I'm older and wiser now but certain other people were responsible for the decision I made. I've chosen to keep a dignified silence and I'll keep it that way.
"I was just delighted with the performance of my players and this was a great result.
"We've had a good day and I will leave it at that. I don't want to open up old wounds.
"I do feel for Stoke because they have played four games over Christmas and we've played only one and a bit. That freshness did help us at the end."