My Thoughts
Tottenham have made a very impressive start to this season- only Manchester United and Chelsea, the two teams above them in the leage right now- have managed to beat Harry Redknapp's side, and it's no secret that Spurs' start to the season has been down to the form of their frontmen, with Jermain Defoe, Peter Crouch and Robbie Keane all in fine goalscoring form, and all contributing to Spurs' total of 21 league goals so far, an average of 2.33 per game. However, question marks still linger over a defence which has only kept 1 Premier League clean sheet this season, and Redknapp will no doubt complain before Saturday's match about 1 or more of his cente-backs being out injured. Get your excuses in early, eh Harry?
Stoke have made a solid start to their Difficult Second Season. They currently reside in 9th place, although they are no more aesthetically pleasing than last season, with complementary neck braces still de rigeur at the Britannia Stadium. Their away record last season was woeful, and while this season they have managed 3 draws on their travels, Tony Pulis' side still face a very difficult task if they are to get anything from this one.
The Verdict
As previously stated, Stoke will make Spurs work for this one. Expect Stoke to favour the aerial route, and possibly just James Beattie (this writer must admit he is puzzled by the lack of "Beattie for England" calls) on his own up top, to try and work whatever makeshift defence Redknapp has spent £20 million on. However, expect Spurs' superior quality in midfield, and greater potency in atttack (even without the suspended Defoe) to eventually shine through and lead to a home win.
The Bet
Spurs are available outright at 2/5 with Blue Square. Due to Spurs' defensive record, it's difficult to see them keeping a clean sheet, therefore a scorecast of 2-1 Spurs could be considered, especially as a tough, combative Stoke side are unlikely to let them walk this one
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