Villa face a feisty fixture in the Potteries on Saturday and will need stand tall in the face of 25,000 plus Stoke fans.
It may feel like they're facing the clichéd '12th man' at times but Villa have the ability and the away following to collect all three points at the Britannia.
Following a fantastic 4-2 win over Man City last weekend, the Claret and Blue will be full of confidence.
Gabby Agbonlahor enjoyed a sensational seven minute spell during the win, which saw him net a hat-trick, and he will be looking for more of the same against Tony Pulis' side.
With such a sharp counter attacking spearhead, Villa may look to soak up pressure against the newly promoted side.
But, they may even go all out attack in the heat of battle, a style which saw them smash Derby for six last season.
Martin O'Neill should name the same side that beat City but it could be all change for his opposite number.
Pulis is likely to give home debuts to Dave Kitson, Amdy Faye and former Villa keeper Tommy Sorensen.
The Dane enjoyed three campaigns at Villa Park but his reputation diminished after a poor second season.
Peter Schmeichel's one time protégé will be out to prove that he is more than just a one season wonder.
So that's a big crowd, a host of new players and a familiar face - Villa will take them all on at Stoke .
But, if we have learned anything during O'Neill's reign so far, it is that his players often perform when they're up against it.
And they will need to continue that defiant streak if they are to rule at the Britannia.