Success at St. James’ Park will be crucial for Newcastle United next season
By Durim Halimi
If Newcastle United aim to finish in the top ten next season, they must be in top form at St. James’ Park.
Playing at home is often considered an advantage for most clubs and this is especially true for Newcastle United. St. James’ Park is unlike any other stadium in England as its impressive structural design creates an intimidating environment for opposing sides.
With a capacity just over 52,000, St. James’ Park truly is a fortress that generates sufficient energy to motivate the eleven Magpies on the pitch. Last season, Newcastle experienced ups and downs at home as they struggled in 2017, but were stellar in 2018.
The Magpies strong form at home in 2018 is what secured their top flight survival one month prior to the season finale. Between December 30th and April 28th, Newcastle were undefeated at St. James’ Park. Not only were the Magpies undefeated, they took down notable opponents, such as Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea in the process.
Home Success in 2018-19 Season
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Every club will emphasize the importance of winning at home next season and success at home will be a necessity for Newcastle. When looking at Newcastle’s schedule for the 2018-19 campaign, it is evident that Rafa Benitez’s men will have a rough start.
Five of Newcastle’s first eight matches will come against Tottenham, Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal and Manchester United. Three of these matches will be played at St. James’ Park and positive results early on could have a significant impact on the season.
Rafa Benitez does not have a single superstar on his roster and, as a result, his Magpies are heavily dependent on collective effort. Sometimes the collective effort is not enough to earn three points, but having the support of 52,000 fans could alter the outcome of the match.
Favorites at Home?
Due to the atmosphere that can be generated at St. James’ Park, it is quite possible for Newcastle to be considered favorites in most home matches. The “favorite” label will also be dependent on how active the club is during this summer transfer window.
At present, the Magpies have only signed Martin Dubravka. Newcastle are in dire need of a striker and a central midfielder who can help coordinate the Magpies offensively. If Newcastle do receive some major upgrades, their odds of winning at home will be even better. However, if the Magpies remain inactive this summer, they will be largely dependent on their home supporters.