Follow every kick as Burnley take on Stoke City in the Premier League
on 10-Mar-2010, kick off time 19:45
Burnley v Stoke City Live
Burnley welcome Stoke City to Turf Moor on Wednesday evening and must re-find their heroics on home soil that has aided their Premier League survival hopes for much of this season. Following their promotion from the Championship last term, the Clarets have secured 22 of their 23 points in their own backyard but, after losing two of their last three outings at Turf Moor, and winning just one in seven, they are now locked in a relegation battle. They sit second from bottom, only ahead of Portsmouth and, although they are just one point from clambering out of the drop-zone, must make home comforts count. Previously under Owen Coyle and now managed by Brian Laws, the side have failed to win on the road this term and a solitary draw - against Manchester City - and 14 demoralising defeats have hindered their chances of survival. Tony Pulis' Stoke side have been on a fine run of form recently and will want to further twist the knife into the Clarets' gaping wounds. Despite losing 3-1 at home to Arsenal in their last league game, that was their first reversal in eight games. Wins over Fulham, Blackburn Rovers and Portsmouth, with draws against Liverpool, Sunderland, Wigan Athletic and Manchester City have propelled the Potters to a lofty 11th place in the Premier League table. They sit a healthy ten points ahead of Hull City, who occupy the third and final position in the drop zone. Burnley must be on their guard against Rory Delap's long throw-ins that have wreaked havoc this season. He has helped his Stoke side launch 408 long throws into opposition territory this campaign, more than any other side. Despite their comfortable position in the league table, they have claimed just two victories on the road and have scored on just seven occasions although they won on their last away-day outing - 2-1 at Portsmouth on February 20. Burnley's injury problems appear to be easing and Laws may be able to call on the services of three first-team stars who missed their weekend defeat at Arsenal. Steven Fletcher (wrist), Steven Caldwell (groin) and Chris McCann (knee) are all nearing a return to the fold. Danny Higginbotham (back) and Matthew Etherington (knee) are looking to return for Stoke but Glenn Whelan is struggling to be fit for the clash.
Source: DSG
