Impressive Fletcher, average Shawcross – The best and the worst-rated Stoke City players vs Preston North End

Stoke City player ratings vs Preston North End: Who impressed and who did not

Stoke City continued their winless run in the Championship, claiming a come-from-behind draw against Preston North End at Deepdale Stadium. Peter Crouch came on around the hour mark to instantly provide salvation for the Potters.

Earlier in the game, Preston scored two goals on either side of Erik Pieters’ equalizer in a whirlwind conclusion to the first half. Paul Gallagher opened the scoring for the home side in the 40th minute from the penalty spot. Pieters levelled things two minutes later with a dipping volley.

However, the Lilywhites regained the lead in the first-half stoppage-time, as Graham Burke volleyed a sensational effort following Stoke’s failure to clear the danger from a free-kick. However, Crouch had the final say in the game in terms of goals, nodding the ball from Joe Allen’s cross.

Here’s how Stoke players rated at Deepdale Stadium.

Stoke City Player ratings

Jack Butland – 7.5/10

The Englishman was comfortable in saving whatever was thrown at him. A much-needed calming performance.

Thomas Edwards – 7/10

Edwards was tenacious and congenial in his performance. In fact, one may even have little sympathy for his hand-ball penalty.

Ryan Shawcross – 6/10

Was a little shaky but commanded the back line when needed.

Ashley Williams – 7/10

Made some important interventions and was solid in the air too, capping off a composed performance.

Erik Pieters – 7/10

Scored a wondrous goal to equalize for Stoke City. However, he clumsily fouled to give Preston a free-kick from which they scored seven minutes later.

Darren Fletcher – 7.5/10

Fletcher continued to perform at a high-level, delivering an impressive display in the midfield.

Joe Allen – 7/10

Allen is definitely getting back to his best with a workman-like effort in the midfield. Showed grit and determination throughout the game.

Tom Ince – 6/10

A hardworking performance with no end product should be the ideal phrase for Ince in this game. A thumping volley towards the goal was his solitary effort.

James McClean – 6/10

McClean, just like Ince, exhibited hard work and determination to fight for the team. He was disappointing on the final ball though.

Saido Berahino  – 6/10

Began the game with a good diving header which was well-saved. Constantly dropped deep to help the team out.

Benik Afobe – 6/10

Ran hard to either stretch the defence or go after a lost cause. However, his work-rate is admirable, to say the least.

SUBS

Mame Biram Diouf (Sub on after 59 mins) – 6/10

Provided fresh energy down the right channel with Ince going to the left.

Peter Crouch (Sub on after 59 mins) – 7/10

He scored the equalizer on his first touch from a header. Remained a constant threat in the air with his height and physicality.

Read More: Championship transfer XI of the summer featuring West Brom and Stoke City stars

Peter Etebo (Sub on after 84 mins) – (N/A)

Did not receive enough time to impact.