Bolton v Stoke: Trotters to show Potters they are the Head Masters?

Gary Megson has strengthened the Trotters this summer after enduring a relegation scare in the last campaign. He has moved to fill the hole left by the January transfer window departure of top scorer Nicolas Anelka with the Swede Johan Elmander and the Dutchman Mustapha Riga. Alongside Kevin Davies this trio of players should be a handful for most Premier League defences as each are extremely powerful so expect Stoke to face an opening day battle at the Reebok.

These two clubs have not met in a League encounter for over 11 years so there is no recent history between the teams. Stoke have made few signings this summer to compliment the squad that finished runners-up in the Championship last season. However, both Dave Kitson and Seyi Olofinjana are strong competitors and will add to an aggressive, competitive Potters outfit. Tony Pulis has built a side that is well organised and aerially strong as he has a selection of 6 foot plus centre-forwards at his disposal.

After all, they have Kitson (6 ft 3), Mamady Sidibe (6 ft 4), Jon Parkin (6 ft 4) and Ricardo Fuller (6 ft 3) already at the club and just for good measure are attempting to sign 6 ft 7 Serb striker Nikola Zigic. Therefore, expect Premier League sides to face an aerial bombardment this season. The question remains, can Stoke Out-Bolton Bolton?

The Trotters had built up a reputation as a side to fear facing under Sam Allardyce but last season this was no longer the case. They struggled for goals particularly away from home where they scored just 13. Overall, Bolton scored just 36 League goals as only Derby (20) and Wigan (34) scored less. However, with the new signings I expect Gary Megson’s side to be far more potent in front of goal. Historically speaking Bolton have scored in 8 of their last 9 opening day Premier League games so as I am expecting a low scoring match this could prove significant. With such power and threat in the Trotters new look side they should be able to improve on their 7 home defeats last term. After all, this was the highest number of losses Bolton had recorded at the Reebok in 6 seasons.

I expect the match will be an aerial war of attrition but I would back Bolton on both Premier 10 and Footy 15 to grab the points as they possess that extra bit of class and it’s difficult to see Stoke being able to out-Bolton, Bolton on their home patch.

Pundit’s Pick: Trotters Take the Points (HOME WIN)

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Tags: Bolton, footy15, Premier 10, Stoke

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