At full-time, a Stoke fan remarked how unusual it felt to have such an uneasy two-goal lead. Normally, scoring twice in the first 14 minutes would signal a comfortable game ahead, but this match felt more like the calm before the storm in a horror movie.
Stoke endured a barrage in the first half, facing 18 shots and defending 10 corners, so reaching halftime with their two-goal advantage intact seemed both well-earned and somewhat fortunate, thanks to the heroics of Viktor Johansson. In the second half, the pressure continued as the visitors unleashed another 10 shots, totaling 24 inside Stoke’s penalty area, along with 13 corners to fend off.
Nahki Wells’ quickfire brace early in the second half left Stoke clinging on, despite what the scoreline might have suggested to those following on Ceefax. A tactical shift to wing-backs helped bolster midfield and defense, stemming the relentless attacks. By the 52nd minute, many in the 19,679-strong crowd would have gladly settled for a draw.
With three intense weeks ahead
Narcis Pelach has Stoke pushing some of the highest physical outputs since their relegation. However, this brings challenges, as the squad must navigate a packed schedule with three consecutive weeks of three matches, squeezed between international breaks.
In 21 days, Stoke faces Norwich, Bristol City, Sheffield United, Southampton, Derby, Blackburn Rovers, and Millwall. The upside is that four of those fixtures are at home, and the two away games aren’t far. The starting XI has remained consistent, and many players are young and full of energy.
Still, squad management will be key, as seen with Enda Stevens’ reduced minutes despite his influence, and Lewis Koumas not being pushed for 90 minutes every game.
Meanwhile, players outside the starting lineup have the chance to step up. Jordan Thompson has filled in for Wouter Burger recently, Niall Ennis was brought on as a sub against Bristol City, and Andre Vidigal has returned to action. Sol Sidibe and Tatsuki Seko are waiting for opportunities in midfield, as is Bosun Lawal once he’s cleared to play, along with Ashley Phillips in defense. Some of these players could quickly rise in the pecking order, while others may highlight gaps that need addressing in the transfer market.
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