Stoke did not win the game - so cannot be awarded 3 points. The result of the match must stand. Washday, having gained an unfair advantage, must have the point they gained from this match deducted. If it is true that, following the Leeds affair, clubs were warned that any future breaking of this rule would incur a 3 points deduction - this must be applied. In summary, a 4 point deduction would seem to be a just outcome.
Could the West Ham "rule" be applied ? That because a points deduction could relegate them at this late stage in the season, a financial penalty will be imposed ? What would the Blunts think to that ?