Championship Clash: Analysing Stoke City's Home Advantage Against Preston North End in a Mid-Season Battle for Points and Position

Stoke City's recent form shows a mixed bag, with three wins, one draw, and two losses in their last six matches. At home, they've been relatively strong, securing two wins and one loss, scoring nine goals and conceding six, indicating a competitive edge on their own turf. Their defensive strength is anchored by centre-back, Wil Wright, who averages 6.4 clearances per game and boasts an 81% success rate in aerial duels, forming a solid partnership with Ben Wilmot, resulting in two clean sheets. Stoke City predominantly employs a 4-2-3-1 formation, with midfielder Will Smallbone providing significant offensive contributions, averaging 2.9 key passes and 3.0 tackles per game. Their attacking strategy relies on wing play and aerial balls, with a 37% success rate from crosses on the left flank, and an average of 12.2 successful aerial duels per game. Forward, Andre Campbell, has scored three goals in his last five matches, however, the text mentions shortcomings related to the midfield passing success. Preston North End's recent performance includes two wins, three draws, and one loss in their last six matches. Their away record shows one win, two draws, and one loss, with a balanced goal difference of seven goals scored and six conceded. Emiliano Maripá is a key player for Preston North End, averaging 2.9 key passes per game and contributing with two goals and two assists in his last five appearances, with a 55% shot conversion rate. Midfielder Daniel Johnson is the team's playmaker, averaging 88 passes per game with a 91% success rate and 2.7 key passes. They maintain 56% possession on average and favour wing play, with 59% of their attacks originating from the flanks. Preston's right-wing crosses have a 38% success rate, and they average 9.9 tackles per game. However, they will be without their first-choice centre-back, Patrick Bauer, due to injury.