The72’s writers offer their Stoke City vs Middlesbrough prediction ahead of their Championship clash on Saturday afternoon.
Stoke City head into this encounter with Middlesbrough having fallen into the relegation zone last weekend following a 2-1 defeat away from home against Cardiff City.
Kion Etete put the Bluebirds ahead within five minutes before Karlan Grant doubled Cardiff’s advantage. Bae Jun-Ho halved the deficit before the break but he Potters were unable to find a leveller, leaving them 22nd in the Championship table as a result.
James Ray
“It’s really hard to see where the turnaround comes for Stoke City. They’ve been so poor this season and with very few redeeming qualities, it’s going to be a really tough task for Schumacher to get anything out of this side.
“Returning Jon Walters issued a rallying cry after coming in as Ricky Martin’s replacement, but will that have a big impact on the playing group? I’m not so sure.
“Middlesbrough have maintained a decent away record despite their inconsistencies too. I can see them emerging victorious.”
Stoke City vs Middlesbrough prediction: 0-2
Middlesbrough travel to the bet365 Stadium having also tasted defeat in their last outing, losing 2-0 at home to Plymouth Argyle.
Matthew Sorinola and Ryan Hardie ensured that Argyle were ahead at half-time, and Boro were unable to fight back as Michael Carrick’s men remained 13th in the Championship. Their previous play-off aspirations now appear very unlikely.
Here, a handful of our writers make their predictions for the game…
Jacob Hackett
“Stoke look like they are in real trouble. Besides Rotherham United, they are the only team down at the bottom end of the table that have seemingly lacked the fight in recent weeks.
“It is a worrying time to be a Potters fan, and should they keep in line with similar performances on Saturday it is hard to see them getting much from the game.
“Although Boro have not quite hit the heights of last season, Carrick still possesses a strong side and the former Manchester United man has certainly still got a tune out of them on occasion this campaign.
“I can see the scoreline being tight, but ultimately I think the visitors will be taking home three points.”
