Stoke City delivered a decisive 2-0 victory over Norwich at Carrow Road in the Championship's 26th round. After a goalless first half, the visitors found their rhythm, with Sam Gallagher breaking the deadlock in the 75th minute, followed by Sorba Thomas securing the win with an 82nd-minute strike. This result marks a continuation of Stoke's recent resurgence, having now claimed back-to-back wins.
Gallagher and Thomas Shine in Second Half
The first half saw both teams struggling to find clear opportunities, with Norwich holding a slight edge in possession. However, it was Stoke who emerged stronger after the break. Gallagher's goal came from a well-timed assist by S. Thomas, showcasing their attacking prowess. Just seven minutes later, Thomas turned scorer, capitalizing on a pass from M. Manhoef to double the lead.
Tactical Shifts and Key Performances
Stoke's tactical adjustments at halftime, including the introduction of D. Mubama, played a crucial role in their second-half dominance. The visitors' ability to convert their chances was evident, with four shots on target compared to Norwich's single effort. Bosun Lawal's midfield control, winning eight duels, was instrumental in stifling Norwich's advances.
Norwich's Struggles and Looking Ahead
Despite a promising start to the season, Norwich's recent form has been inconsistent. Their inability to capitalize on possession and limited shots on goal highlighted their struggles. As they look to bounce back, the focus will be on improving their attacking efficiency. Meanwhile, Stoke's victory propels them further up the table, building momentum for their upcoming fixtures.
