FIFA 18 simulation: Newcastle United vs. AFC Bournemouth
Ahead of today’s match, virtual Newcastle United hosted AFC Bournemouth in this week’s FIFA 18 simulation.
With limited history between the clubs in real life, a virtual simulation between the two may give us a quality look at what to expect later on today between Newcastle United and AFC Bournemouth. Per our usual rules, the clubs lined up identically to their most recent Premier League outing.
Related Story: What to watch for vs. Bournemouth
The first major chance of the match came on a strong run through the Newcastle defense by Benik Afobe. Jamaal Lascelles was able to force him into a bad angle, but his deflected shot led to a corner. While the initial attempt was handled easily, the second ball gave Jermain Defoe a header on goal. Javier Manquillo’s play in the air was poor, but Rob Elliot’s diving stop kept the Cherries out.
After 20 minutes, Bournemouth had dominated the chances and possession. In the 23rd minute, Joselu put Newcastle United’s first shot on frame, ending with an easy save by Asmir Begovic. Just as the match arrived at the half hour mark, Jonjo Shelvey broke the tie. The midfielder was picked out by Mohamed Diame in the area and calmly tapped the ball home. No other notable action occured before the break.
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Halftime substitute Callum Wilson would equalize less than five minutes into the second half. Another instance of poor marking from Manquillo allowed for an easy finish from the Bournemouth striker. Jacob Murphy was the first Magpies player off the bench, coming on for Matt Ritchie in the 65th minute.
Henri Saivet replaced Diame in the 70th minute, maybe a positive omen for the scarcely used midfielder who is looking to earn time this weekend. A perfect Jonjo Shelvey through ball found Joselu in a dangerous area, but he made a poor decision, getting a risky attempted pass to Jacob Murphy intercepted.
Dwight Gayle came on for Ayoze in the 89th minute, but he couldn’t help the Toon get all three points. Shelvey was the Man of the Match and Newcastle United led in possession.