Preview
Stoke vs Sunderland Tips
Both sides badly need their first win of the season when the Premier League’s bottom two clubs go toe to toe at the Bet365 Stadium on Saturday. Stoke have looked a bit more solid with two draws on the bounce, while Sunderland rescued a point at home to West Brom last time out to get only their second point of the season. Neither side has really shown anything to offer their supporters a sense of optimism so far, but with September now out of the way it is about the time of the season that Sunderland usually crank up their performances. Stoke have looked the better of the two sides to be frank, but both teams have their own problems and a long way to go if they are to battle against relegation.
Stoke vs Sunderland Betting Tips: Winner
There are arguments to be made for both sides, and this preview has tried to weigh them up evenly when making the prediction of which side will win the game. Stoke are the hosts and their most recent game was an impressive point against Man Utd, but Sunderland have tended to perform better away from home so far. This game could end up yet another stalemate of course, but perhaps back Sunderland to buck the trend and lift themselves above the Potters with an away win here. That betting tip can be backed at 13/5.
Stoke vs Sunderland Predictions: Half Time / Full Time
If you fancy backing that betting tip then why not take it one step further and get the total goals in there as well? While our prediction may be on a Sunderland win, we don’t think there will be too many goals on display – it likely won’t be a comfortable result whatever happens. For this preview we’ve mentioned that neither side has offered too much just yet, and both will see this as not so much a must win game, but certainly more a must not lose one. It will be tight and defensive, with counter attacks likely the order of the day. For the game to be tied at half time, with Sunderland to win it in the second half, the odds are 15/2.
Stoke vs Sunderland Players To Watch
Sunderland boss David Moyes admits he took a gamble when signing former Everton star Victor Anichebe, but he has faith that the striker can deliver the goods and help ease the burden being placed on Jermain Defoe’s shoulders. If those two can perhaps strike up a good understanding on the pitch – if they even get to feature alongside each other of course – they could pose Stoke problems for sure. Their effectiveness could be key to Sunderland winning or losing the match.