Geoff Cameron and Peter Odemwingie got in and returned to action in a 0-0 draw for a Stoke XI at League Two Burton. Both World Cup stars joined the squad only this week after being granted extended leaves to lend a hand to their countries USA and Nigeria reach the knockout stages of the World Cup in Brazil last month.

Cameron started in his preferred central defensive role, and he as well handed the captaincy; while Odemwingie took his place in attack in a side containing a mixture of the fringe player, newly signed players, and youngsters.

The Premier League visitors were with Lucas Akins who had a summer signing as he also stood out for last season's Sky bet League Two play-off finalists. Albion competed well against them, and it was anybody's game given that both teams exhibited their full potentials through spectacular display of performances.

Akins cut inside from the right-hand side and saw a shot strike a post after 15 minutes. The former Stevenage forward then worked Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland twice in as many minutes midway through the first half, forcing the England goalkeeper to tip the ball away for a corner before making him produce a brave point-blank save.

Lucas Akins continued to trouble the Potters in the second half, and Butland felt the need to desperately make a move quickly in order to parry another shot.

Stoke will continue their preparations for the new season on Sunday when a much stronger side is set to take on Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park.