Stoke City 0 Barnsley 0

Both teams had plenty of chances to win this game,but that neither did was down entirely to desperately poor finishing.

Barnsley largely bossed the first half, through virtually complete control of the midfield,and the promptings of tricky winger Campbell-Ryce.Stoke's defence was fully extended on numerous occasions.Chances created were wasted by some wild finishing with the ball's direction, trajectory and height,as one fan commented,having more in common with rugby union than soccer!

In the second half Stoke looked rather more positive,especially so once Sidibe replaced Parkin for the last 20minutes or so,The Potters began to exert more pressure on the visitors.There were numerous exciting melees in the visitors penalty area,but despite the opportunities no one was able to put the ball in the net.Once or twice the scenes were like something from the Alamo,Stoke shots being deflected away from goal by diving Barnsley players,determined to get some part of their bodies in the way.

Two clearcut Stoke shots on goal from Matteo and Wright brought fine full length saves from Barnsley keeper Muller.Fuller,who once again ploughed a lone furrow throughout the match,hit the top of the visitor's bar with one shot.Cresswell struck an inviting chance over the bar.

Starting the evening there was much talk of a win taking Stoke into the top six.In the event they now lie in 10th spot.