'Destined for defeat' – Stoke City vs Plymouth Argyle prediction: The72
01/03/2025 03:35 AM
Stoke City and Plymouth Argyle meet in the Championship this weekend with both sides looking for improvements under new management.
Stoke City come into the clash with Plymouth Argyle under the new management of former Coventry City boss Mark Robins.
The Championship veteran has been drafted in as the permanent replacement for Narcis Pelach, who failed to make an impact in his brief tenure. The Potters sit 19th in the table coming into this weekend, four points clear of the drop.
Last time out under the caretaker lead of Ryan Shawcross, the Staffordshire outfit drew 0-0 with promotion-chasing Burnley.
As for Plymouth Argyle, they make the trip to Stoke City looking to pick up another result after drawing with Bristol City on New Year’s Day. A late Julio Pleguezuelo equaliser saw the tie end 2-2.
The Pilgrims are currently under the temporary lead of Kevin Nancekivell and captain Joe Edwards after deciding to part ways with Wayne Rooney. It comes with the club sat at the foot of the Championship table.
It seems further change is afoot with director of football Neil Dewsnip also said to be departing.
Here, a handful of our writers make their predictions for the game…
James Ray
“It’s hard to go into any Plymouth Argyle away game and feel they’re not destined for defeat. The Pilgrims have been dismal on the road again this season and against a talented side excited for the future under new management, I’m predicting a home win here.
“There’s no hiding that Robins has a lot of work to do at Stoke City but he’ll be determined to buck the trend of managers coming up short at the Bet365 Stadium.
“Honestly, I don’t know whether Robins will bring glory days back to the Potters, simply because of how tough recent years have been for the club. However, I do think he’ll get off to the perfect start with a home win.”
Prediction: Stoke City 2-0 Plymouth Argyle
Harry Mail
“Robins will want to start life at Stoke City with a win and this is a perfect opportunity for him to do so against a side who don’t win away.
“The former Coventry City man is a sensible appointment by the Potters and should use his experience to steady the ship.
“Plymouth Argyle are struggling and need to sort their form out on their travels or they will be heading back down to League One.
“The Pilgrims are in the hunt for a new boss and must get their replacement for Wayne Rooney right. I can’t see them getting anything in Staffordshire this weekend.”
Prediction: Stoke City 2-0 Plymouth Argyle
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