Southampton host Stoke City in the Championship on Saturday afternoon with both sides looking to extend their unbeaten starts.
Southampton have high expectations this season following their relegation from the Premier League, and it is Will Still’s job to deliver their ambitions of an instant return.
The Saints have endured a fair start to their campaign after victory on the opening day against Wrexham. Following a 1-0 win over Northampton Town in the Carabao Cup, they drew 1-1 with Ipswich Town back in league action.
Back on home soil this weekend, Still’s side will be hopeful of securing three points against tough opposition.
Southampton boss Will Still
Image courtesy of: ANDREW COULRIDGE/REUTERS.
Stoke City, on the other hand, sit top of the table after their first two second tier outings.
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The Potters left it late to beat Derby County 3-1 on the opening day, courtesy of debut strikes from Divin Mubama and Sorba Thomas, prior to a 0-0 draw with Walsall in the Carabao Cup which they won on penalties.
Last time out, Mark Robins’ men beat Sheffield Wednesday 3-0 away from home. A similar result on Saturday would see SCFC in an early dreamland.
Here, a handful of our writers make their prediction for the game…
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Jacob Hackett
“Southampton are rightly one of the favourites for promotion this term and it feels as though it is only a matter of time before they fully click into gear.
“Yet to lose, it is hard to envisage them doing so on home soil this weekend.
SCFC - Stoke City boss Mark Robins
Image courtesy of: JASON CAIRNDUFF/REUTERS.
“Stoke City have enjoyed a very positive start to their season and will feel confident ahead of their trip, but I think an upset is unlikely on this occasion.
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“My guess is that the hosts will take all three points.”
Prediction: Southampton 3-1 Stoke City
James Ray
“Southampton might be among the favourites for promotion this season but at this early stage, it is Stoke City who sit top of the pile. They’ve looked strong in their first two games, although it arguably hasn’t been against the strongest opposition.
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“The Saints are by far the biggest test for SCFC to date, and I think they’ll put that decent early defensive record to the test. They are a work in progress as they adjust to Will Still’s ways though, so I think we’ll see another even game.
“I am leaning towards a narrow home win here, but I think I’ll back the Potters to hold firm and get a good point on the road.”
Prediction: Southampton 1-1 Stoke City
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