Anorak: Stoke looking good to rule at Britannia

TONY Pulis has established Stoke City as a mid-table side since they were promoted six years ago, but this season they haven’t managed to reach those heights and hover just above the relegation places.

That may be down to other sides learning how to cope better with their direct physical approach, but I think they are worth a bet at 11-10 against Aston Villa today.

Last week they gave in-form Everton a torrid time at Goodison, but left with nothing, and a repeat show could be enough to gain the win over a Villa side which has shown great energy in recent weeks, but are so naive at times, especially at the back. Christian Benteke and Andreas Weimann are a test for any defence but they come up against two Rottweiler-like defenders in Robert Huth and Ryan Shawcross, and if Villa don’t score they usually concede. It’s not an obvious form selection but I’ve a feeling the points will stay at the Britannia.

Bristol Rovers have propelled themselves into mid-division after a horrendous run under Mark McGhee and look a good bet to beat struggling AFC Wimbledon (11/10 betvictor), while table-topping Doncaster can take another step forward towards the English League One title by beating Tranmere (evens).

Partick Thistle, at 6-5, may prove too strong for Second Division champions Queen of the South in tomorrow’s Ramsdens Cup final.

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