Stoke City and Preston North End clashed in a bruising encounter on a Sky Bet Championship matchday Saturday. The ugly, tense, hostile, atmospheric showdown at the Bet365 Stadium ended 0-0. The outcome represented an impressive continuation of Preston’s recent good flow, making it seven matches without defeat. On the other hand, Stoke’s misery still persisted, as they’ve only been able to win one of their last six league matches.
The game developed into an open affair with both sides getting opportunities but struggling to finish in front of goal. Stoke further fell to 10th in the league table with the tie. At the other end of the table, Preston continued to consolidate fifth place. The match was particularly significant for Preston’s boss, Paul Heckingbottom. He was glad to have finished serving his three-match touchline ban with this one.
Match Overview
The opening forty five saw both teams play a tactical slugfest, with Preston attempting to use the weaknesses in Stoke’s lineup to their advantage. The visitors had an early opportunity when Ben Gibson’s effort from the corner of the box deflected over the crossbar. Stoke were having the better chances though as Bosun Lawal raced in behind the away defence. It was Thierry Small who demonstrated his quality with a brilliant last-ditch tackle, completely thwarting the counter.
Then, with half an hour gone, Lawal released a long throw into the box. It wreaked havoc in the Preston box, but thankfully, as a hot potato it kicked harmlessly to the far post without immediate threat. Sorba Thomas came close to breaking the deadlock, almost finding the top corner with a tight-angle shot. Unfortunately, he could only find the side netting, keeping both teams even at the break.
Preston’s goalkeeper, Daniel Iversen, was forced into action on multiple occasions. He saved Thomas for a third time though, stretching to his left to deny the winger with an effort curled in beautifully from distance. Jordan Storey took a rapid first touch before directing a firm header on goal, following a free-kick delivery from Ben Whiteman. He wasn’t able to get by Iversen.
Second Half Chances
The second half would play out in much the same manner, with each side searching for the crucial first goal. Whiteman almost put Stoke’s defense under straightened pressure by forcing goalkeeper Viktor Johansson into a top save. Johansson was similarly called into action by Small’s low sharp shot that he blocked moments later.
Despite several attempts from both sides, neither team could convert their chances into goals. Then, in a game-defining play, Thomas bent a right-footed shot from the top of the box. Iversen resolved and rose to the occasion yet again.
Stoke’s manager Mark Robins expressed frustration after the match, reflecting on his team’s performance.
“We ended up getting a point, but it could have and should have been a lot more.” – Mark Robins
Team Reflections
In the aftermath of the match, Preston No 2 Stuart McCall reflected on their run of hot or cold form.
“But 34 points, if we can actually replicate or do a little bit better than that in the second half of the season it could be good, which we’re going to have to do because we’ve lost ground.” – Stuart McCall
The draw proves yet another reflection of Preston’s positive outlook as they push further into the Championship’s playoff positions. Stoke’s road looks tough as they look to work their way back into the playoff discussion.
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