The Potters got off to a fantastic start to the new season by beating Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Britannia Stadium this afternoon.
Both sides had chances in the first half, Gifton Noel-Williams and Ade Akinbiyi coming the closest, but some fine keeping by Wolves shotshopper Paul Jones denied Stoke going into half time with a one goal lead. Kenny Miller had the best chance for Wolves, but his weak header was easily caught by Stoke 24-7's Man of the Match, Ed De Goey.
Mr Kaye, the referee, was an absolute disgrace, booking Gerry Taggart and Gifton Noel-Williams the first time they commited fouls, which were really nothing hurendous. He failed to book a man in a Gold (as they say) shirt until late on in the game.
The second half would feed the way for a more competitive half, with both sides going at it, Stoke looking the stronger of the two. Akinbiyi had chances but Paul Jones easily gathered.
Stoke did however break the deadlock in the 55th minute. Darel Russell sending a phenomonal strike into the bottom corner of the net, sending the Stoke supporters into one hell of a celebration.
Things got better for the home side in the 69th minute, when Ade Akinbiyi was through on goal, but was pulled down in the box. After the referee's dreadful performance throughout the game, no one expected the penalty decision to be given, but Clive Clarke kept his cool and slotted home to give Stoke a 2-0 lead.
Stoke wern't ready to settle on 2-0 and went after some more goals but opertunities were wasted. Wolves also had chances but some dreadful finishing and some fine saves from Stoke keeper Ed De Goey ment they got what they deserved - nothing.
88 minutes into the game and Gifton Noel-Williams handled the ball in the area and the referee awarded Wolves a penalty. Kenny Miller stepped up and fired the ball into the roof of the net giving Ed De Goey no chance.
That goal proved to be a consolation goal and just over 17,000 saw Stoke go home with all 3 points.
