AWAY DAY DELIGHT SEES STOKE STAY IN PLAY-OFF RACE

QUICKFIRE goals from Sam Gallagher and Sorba Thomas helped injury-hit Stoke City to a second away win on the spin.

- Peter Smith

Gallagher came off the bench at halftime at Norwich to score his first Stoke goal in 10 months, while Thomas continued his brilliant campaign and wrapped up a well-deserved 2-0 victory.

The Potters were rarely threatened at the other end as they sealed a second clean sheet in a row, following up a hard-earned three points at Hull on New Year's Day.

Mark Robins' squad has taken a battering over four games in 10 days, but his players have called on reserves to secure victories that keep them well in the playoff mix in a congested Championship - and the amount of work they've put in to get these two wins over the line will not be unnoticed by an appreciative fan base.

Robins had made two changes to his starting XI after seeing even his emergency left-back, Ben Gibson, consigned to the treatment room with Eric Bocat and Aaron Cresswell.

Bosun Lawal dropped back into the defence and Ben Pearson took his place in midfield following suspension.

Robert Bozenik (shoulder) was replaced up front by Divin Mubama.

There were spots on the bench for youngsters Jaden Dixon, Jake Griffin, Favour Fawunmi and Gabriel Kelly.

Stoke had a decent chance for a breakthrough in the opening minute when Bae Junho won the ball back in the Norwich half and with a flick he teed up Thomas to cross for Mubama, who couldn't take advantage and saw his effort deflect over.