Xherdan Shaqiri scores wonder goal (Video)

Stoke City have taken the lead against a reeling Hull side in the 26th minute by way of a Xherdan Shaqiri wonder strike.

Stoke winger Xherdan Shaqiri received the ball wide after a cleared corner kick, cut in on his left foot and unleashed a stunning left-footed effort from about 25 yards, giving Hull’s David Marshall absolutely no chance.

Shaqiri had only thought on his mind as he struck the ball with venom and whip. It is a strike out of the top drawer. The midfielder couldn’t have hit it more sweetly and deserves the subsequent praise he’ll surely receive.

It’s a massive goal for Stoke who, with a win today, would climb out of the relegation zone. Stoke are coming off a big 2-0 win against Sunderland last week and are starting to look like the team most people thought they’d be before the season started.

Stoke will climb to nine points with a win today. More importantly, though, is how assured and confident way the team have been playing lately. They are unbeaten in three games, which includes an impressive away draw at Manchester United.

Hull, on the other hand, are losing ground every week and are getting ever-closer to the drop zone. A team in utter turmoil, Hull need to find some consistency and leadership in a hurry. But where it will come from is anyone’s guess as the club is still waiting for the ownership debacle to be resolved. They need help, and in a hurry.

Hull are coming off a 6-1 drubbing at the hands of Bournemouth last weekend. Their confidence must be at an all-time low. And it looks like things are only going to get worse before they get better.

Next: Have a look at our Week 8 power rankings

All but two of Hull’s goals thus far have come in the second half, so they’ll be hoping for a late surge to try salvage something.

Things, however, look dire for Hull and we can’t see them improving any time soon.