Stoke have won only three league games out of 14 away from home and boss Tony Pulis feels that is down to their more open way of playing this season. The Potters are now looking for a change of luck on the road, beginning on Saturday when he takes the Potters to Upton Park for a crucial Premier League clash against West Ham.
"Our away form has been disappointing," he said.
"A lot of times we have played better than the previous two years but not got the breaks and been unfortunate not to pick up the points.
"It is a tough league and we are still learning. We have played a little bit more open this season. We have (Jermaine) Pennant and (Matthew) Etherington and two centre forwards.
"So we play almost 4-2-4 at times. Although we have done better, especially going forward, we have been a little bit looser at the back and lost goals when maybe when we shouldn't have. It is about getting that balance right."
Stoke would appear to be comfortable in 10th place but Pulis is taking nothing for granted in the club's third season in the Premier League.
He said: "The aim has always been to get to 40 points as quickly as we can, especially this year when there are so many clubs close together.
"I have never known the league being so tight. It is exciting for everyone. It keeps the blood flowing.
"In fact I've had some blood tests done. The medical side are pushing on and even check the manager.
"I think (chairman) Peter Coates is doing it just to check that I am all right. I've had a couple of calf injuries. It is old age and sitting in the car driving up and down the motorway."
