please log in to view this image STOKE CITY v WATFORD please log in to view this image Bet365 Stadium Saturday 19th August 2023 Kick Off : 1500 BST please log in to view this image Stoke City play host to Watford on Saturday afternoon, looking to bounce back from losing their undefeated start to the season last weekend. Meanwhile, the Hornets, sitting in third position in the table, make the trip to the bet365 Stadium as the only team in the Championship yet to concede a goal. Having defeated Rotherham United and West Bromwich Albion on the opening weekend of the season and in the EFL Cup respectively, Alex Neil would have been optimistic of halting the form of Ipswich Town last weekend. Instead, Stoke succumbed to a 2-0 defeat at Portman Road, Neil feeling the need to make a tactical change shortly after the half-hour mark having been concerned that the Tractor Boys could get away from them. Despite Stoke showcasing their attacking threat earlier in the season, they now face opponents who are coming off the back of two shutouts in the second tier. Recently-appointed head coach Valerien Ismael would have been disappointed with the goalless draw posted against League One champions Plymouth Argyle last weekend. Nevertheless, it kept things ticking over in the right direction during the early stages of the season, when there have been mass arrivals and departures. Former Aston Villa frontman Wesley Moraes has hinted that he could prove to be an important member of this Stoke squad, given the physical presence that he offered in the final 56 minutes at Ipswich. Judging by the calls from the Watford fans, a player who can put the ball in the net on a regular basis is required, as doubts exist if the players seen to date are likely to be on the scoresheet every week. Our Officials JAMES BELL Ian Cooper and George Byrne Fourth Official : Keith Stroud
And now for the first bit of Team News. Ismael press conference: Ince in squad tomorrow; Lewis has had setback with calf, nothing major, out week or two; Ngakia trained yesterday, late decision; Sierralta slight quad injury, decide tomorrow. Kalu training after illness
As the games slowly notch up, so might the injuries and we've a small squad as it is. Away at Stoke is a good test to see if this team has any metal.
We still get tagged with the big ,strong athletic” tag then! https://oatcakefanzine.proboards.com/thread/309525/stoke-city-watford?page=2 Suppose Bayo could be in theory and there is Sierralta to put himself about.
Can't join you this afternoon as it's the local gymkhana.... lets hope we continue our current style of play, enjoy the game all.
Andrew French. Watched James Collins several times for #watfordfc U21s last season. Thought he was impressive - good finisher, makes intelligent runs. I know Omer Riza thinks highly of him, so good sign to see another youngster being brought through
As it happens we are not going as Mme did not sleep well and I am incubating a cold. since discovered it started at 845am and we were planning to go when it was nearly all over bar the dog show. Don't worry, I am not keen on horses, Mme is and is trying to get me on one. Experience so far is a donkey on the beach way back. Looking for a stream.
You might find a stream on https://live.harleyquinnwidget.live/. The game is advertised, but a bit early.
It seems that the Hive's broadcast isn't being streamed - am having to put up with strange accents from Stoke.
