Newcastle United looked out of sync against Arsenal on Monday night, but fans should expect a better performance against Crystal Palace on Saturday.
Newcastle United have been one of the best teams in the Premier League in 2019, but that good form was not on display in the Magpies’ 2-0 loss to Arsenal on Monday night. Newcastle looked tired, lacked discipline in midfield and failed to establish a rhythm in the game due to woeful passing.
Just how bad was the performance against Arsenal? Bad enough for Rafa Benitez to claim that Mike Ashley needs to spend around £75M in order for Newcastle to play toe-to-toe with the top six. That being said, though, Newcastle had an off night against one of the most in-form clubs in the league that is fighting to secure their place in the Champions League next season.
Had Newcastle struggled like this against a bottom-half club then the Toon Army would have reasons to worry. The good news for the Toon is that they will host Crystal Palace on Saturday in what will be a competitive, but winnable game.
A Better Performance Ahead
Newcastle have been on fire at St. James’ Park as they have won their last five games in front of their home supporters, with one of those victories coming against Manchester City. Newcastle struggled at home to start the season, but they have turned St. James’ Park into a fortress where visitors struggle to get points.
This five game winning streak at home will benefit Newcastle as they can shake off their loss to Arsenal with endless support from the Toon Army. Crystal Palace have the best defensive record in the bottom half of the table with a goal differential of -3, but Newcastle have created 84 chances and scored 10 goals during their undefeated streak at home.
It is also true that Crystal Palace boast a dangerous front-line with Wilfried Zaha, Michy Batshuayi and Andros Townsend, but Newcastle back-line, which will see Fabian Schar make his return from suspension, has only conceded three goals and has claimed three clean sheets during this hot streak.
Benitez will point out the critical mistakes his players made at the Emirates Stadium and he will alter his tactics to place emphasis on attack. The Magpies are seven points clear of the drop zone, but they need a win on Saturday to truly feel safe in the Top Flight.