This was the young Reds' third pre-season warm-up fixture following a 2-0 defeat against SV Ried in Austria and last week’s game at the Aon Training Complex, which Rochdale won with a single goal from the penalty spot.
It was another warm day in the Potteries but, thankfully, there was cloud cover and a very pleasant breeze that helped to make the conditions more bearable for the players. Rain threatened as the game started – but didn’t arrive – and it was Stoke City, in their traditional red and white stripes, who made the early running.
The hosts were lively in attack and caused United’s defence a few nervy moments as the contest unfolded.