Stoke City's strong recent form makes them favourites as they prepare to host Bristol City at the bet365 Stadium this weekend. The Potters have won four of their last five Championship matches, a run that has lifted them to sixth place in the table with 19 points from 11 games, a record of six wins, one draw and four losses. This upturn in results provides a solid platform for the upcoming fixture against a Bristol City side currently positioned 16th. The visitors have struggled for consistency, which Stoke will look to exploit to continue their push towards the automatic promotion places. They currently sit just four points behind league leaders Swansea City.
Recent momentum
Stoke’s momentum was built on a hard-fought 1-0 away win at Derby County last Saturday, secured by a Luke Graham goal just before half-time. That result followed a narrow 3-2 home defeat to Middlesbrough, a game in which Róbert Boženík and an own goal from Neto Borges were on the scoresheet for the hosts. The team has shown a capacity to score, netting 18 times this season, while conceding 16 for a goal difference of plus two. Their recent form, reading four wins and one loss from the last five, includes victories over Bolton, Sheffield United and Watford, alongside that defeat to Middlesbrough and the win at Derby.
Manager Steven Schumacher will be keen to see his side tighten up defensively while maintaining their attacking threat. The squad’s depth and recent performances, suggest they are well-equipped for the challenge. A victory would consolidate their position in the play-off spots and keep pressure on the teams above them.
The head-to-head context
Historically, meetings between these two sides have been closely contested. Stoke will be aware that past form offers no guarantees, but their current league standing and home advantage provide a significant psychological edge. The team's immediate focus is on executing their game plan and securing another three points in their next fixture at home to Bristol City on Saturday 24 October.
The match kicks off on Saturday, 24 October, as part of a busy Championship schedule. A win would mark a fifth victory in six games, underlining their status as one of the division's form teams.
The original report is at bbc.co.uk
