Stoke - Wolverhampton


With five games to play, Stoke still aren’t safe with five points more (and this game in hand) than Wigan. They have only two wins out of last eight league games (total of eight points), but at home their record is more than decent (as always under Pulis). They have won four and drawn two out of last six at Britannia. Ricardo Fuller is out, John Carew is available.

Mick McCarthy and Wolves are felling the fire under the feet. They are one point below the line and are in the group of 7-8 clubs who have every reason to worry about Premiership status. Even a point wouldn’t improve their position too much and I believe they’ll go for a win. Problem is they have the worst away record in Premier with only two wins out of 16 games and total of eight(!) points (defeated Villa and L’pool though). Stephen Hunt is contention, Ebanks-Blake in doubt.

At the first glance and as the odds suggest, this should be a nervous game and low scoring affair. But, the fact is one point doesn’t mean too much for any side. Stoke are favourites and I think they won’t just sit back and keep the opening score. Why should they? They’re hosting the worst travellers in the league. On the other hand, Wolves will have to find the way to score which should make them even more vulnerable than usual. Also, I wouldn’t overlook the possibility goal difference will be very important at the end. I’ll go against public opinion and take goals.

 Bet: Over 2.5
Odd: 2.14 188bet
Stake: 7/10

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