Best description of Romney's performance I've read so far from Politico:
[quote">At a minimum, Romney's performance has chased away the aroma of terminal illness that was starting to emanate from his campaign and the increasingly restive factions in and around his operation. He has given conservatives a performance to rally behind, likely stalled any effort by GOP moneymen to start directing money away from the presidential race in favor of congressional races, and, not least, bolstered his own self-confidence after weeks of painful stubbed toes and jeering commentary.
Read more:
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1012/82007.html#ixzz28K7kNfWqHe needed to appear in control of his game last night. Whether it's enough or whether any of it appeals to people is another thing entirely.