Both teams had a quiet first half but Sinclair, McGreal and Hyde's absence showed especially in the second half. A Ricketts Yellow Card means he'll pick up a 2-match suspension for picking up 10 yellow cards this season.

Paul Gallagher took the lead for Stoke on the 52nd minute. The Clarets had another setback only a few minutes later, Darel Russell kicked out at Jon Harley following a foul but both players were booked although Russell was extremely lucky not to have been sent off to the annoyance of the Burnley following.

Once again only a few more minutes had passed before Burnley found the net only to have it disallowed because Andy Gray was adjudged to have handled the ball.

Burnley moved to a more attacking formation as the half went on but it wasn't enough as we struggled to but couldn't scrape a point. Commentary from Stoke suggested that we were the worst side they have seen so far this season and we can only hope that a stronger defense and midfield will reduce any goals conceded and provide better delivery to the strike force.

Thanks to Tim Rigby for images.