Stoke v Plymouth Match Report & Stats: 0-0 – Stalemate in Robins' Debut
| Competition | Championship |
|---|---|
| Date | January 4, 2025 |
| Venue | bet365 Stadium, Stoke |
| Final Score | Stoke 0-0 Plymouth |
Mark Robins’ managerial debut for Stoke ended in frustration as his side was held to a goalless draw by managerless Plymouth. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous opportunities, Stoke lacked the cutting edge to break down a resilient Plymouth defence. The hosts were 4/6 favorites on leading UK betting sites.
Stoke v Plymouth Match Report
The game began with Stoke controlling possession and probing the Plymouth defence. Lynden Gooch’s runs down the right flank created early pressure, but the final ball often lacked precision. Plymouth, content to sit deep and counter, relied on their backline, with Brendan Galloway and Julio Pleguezuelo excelling.
Stoke’s best chance came in the 27th minute when Gooch whipped in a dangerous cross, but Tyrese Campbell's header went wide. Injuries disrupted the rhythm in the second half, with Stoke’s key midfielder Sam Gallagher substituted early.
Despite enjoying 64% of the ball and racking up 18 goal attempts, Stoke failed to convert their dominance into goals. Plymouth, with only two attempts, rarely threatened but held firm to secure a valuable point on the road.
Key Moments
1st Half
- 27' Lynden Gooch (Stoke) delivered a teasing cross, but Campbell couldn't capitalise.
- 41' Conor Hazard (Plymouth) earned a yellow card for time-wasting.
2nd Half
- 49' Sam Gallagher (Stoke) substituted due to injury, disrupting the midfield.
- 70' Adam Forshaw (Plymouth) entered, bringing composure to their defence in the final stages.
Stats at a Glance
| Statistic | Stoke | Plymouth |
|---|---|---|
| Expected Goals (xG) | 0.81 | 0.08 |
| Ball Possession | 64% | 36% |
| Shots on Target | 3 | 1 |
| Total Attempts | 18 | 2 |
| Pass Accuracy | 80% | 69% |
Lineups
Stoke (4-2-3-1): Johansson; Tchamadeu, Phillips, Wilmot, Gooch; Gallagher, Seko; Koumas, Moran, Bae; Cannon.
Substitutes Used: Burger
Plymouth (3-4-3): Hazard; Szucs, Pleguezuelo, Galloway; Sorinola, Randell, Gyabi, Mumba; Whittaker, Obafemi, Al Hajj.
Substitutes Used: Ogbeta, Houghton, Forshaw, Issaka.
Pre-Match Tips Evaluation
- "Stoke to win" ❌
- Despite controlling the game, Stoke couldn’t find the net, resulting in a disappointing draw.
- "Mark Robins’ appointment should see Stoke start with a victory" ❌
- Robins’ debut highlighted Stoke's lack of finishing quality rather than managerial impact.
- "Plymouth’s poor away form will cost them" ✅
- While Plymouth extended their winless away streak, their defensive resilience earned them a point.
Mark Robins’ Stoke tenure begins with mixed feelings—solid control but an inability to capitalise on chances. The draw highlights areas for improvement as Stoke aim to turn possession into points in their pursuit of a top-half finish in the Championship.
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