Table-toppers continued their outstanding unbeaten run with a dominant three to one scoreline against ten-man Watford.
The home side's lineup began to a flying start with Brandon Thomas-Asante and Jamie Allen finding the target within the initial minutes.
The Japanese winger made it a 3-0 advantage just before the break, while James Abankwah was dismissed before the whistle.
A Watford player converted a spot-kick for the losing side, but it was nothing more than a meaningless goal.
Their shot-stopper Carl Rushworth had before denied a one-on-one opportunity for Rocco Vata, which could have changed the game early on.
Frank Lampard said: “It was a challenging match today because Watford are a good side.”
The substitute was introduced from the sideline to net the lone goal in a one-nil victory over the visitors.
They dominated the play but only broke the goalless draw late thanks to Clarke's 5th strike of the campaign.
West Brom thought they had netted in stoppage time, but the effort was disallowed for a offense in the penalty area.
A Portsmouth defender turned a late own goal to give Mark Robins' team a 1-0 victory.
John Mousinho's men have now secured just a single match since the close of August.
The Stoke manager commented: “It was one of the most important victories we’ve had this season.”
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