The Premier League returns after a much-needed break following their busy holiday schedule. First match will take place at the Britannia Stadium and will feature
Stoke City against
Fulham FC. After a strong start this year, the Potters lost 3 straight matches and although they sit at 12th in the table, they are only 3 points above the relegation zone. A 3-1 victory against York City this weekend in the FA Cup should give
Tony Pulis' side the confidence to get something from this match. The manager will field a similar squad to the one he played against York and the players will face a tough task in breaking down Fulham's formidable defense. The Potters are at full strength and will do their best to perform in front of a packed house at the Brittania.
9th place Fulham FC have made some impressive performances in the first half of the season, the most recent of which was a 3-0 defeat of Manchester United at Craven Cottage. They have been struggling with their away form however. Winning just once while on the road, the Cottagers have allowed 1.44 goals on average while only scoring 1. Striker Bobby Zamora has been in impeccable form and has been integral in most of their recent games. Roy Hodgson rested many of his first team regulars for the weekend FA Cup clash with Swindown Town. However Simon Davies, Diomansy Kamara, Seol Ki-Hyeon and John Pantsil remain sidelined. Despite this, Fulham's recent form will give them the confidence needed to perform well at the loudest stadium in Britain.
Stoke City's late struggles with scoring will present a tough challenge against one of the best defenses in the Premiership. With players such as Bobby Zamora and Damien Duff at the top of their game, the Cottagers should come away with at least a draw and possibly a win.
Stoke City vs Fulham F.C.
Tuesday January 5, 2009
Kickoff: 20:45 CET
Venue: Brittania Stadium (Stoke-On-Trent)
Tip: Fulham +0
Best Odds: 2.02 @ Bet365
