Preview: Newcastle are only thinking about 3 points vs. Bournemouth

Newcastle United will host Bournemouth at St. James’ Park tomorrow, and Steve Bruce’s side is solely focused on claiming back-to-back wins for the first time this season.

Newcastle United are flying high at the moment after claiming seven points from their last four matches, and Saturday’s clash against Bournemouth presents the Magpies with a good opportunity to win back-to-back matches for the first time this season. A win for Newcastle United could see them knock on the door of the top ten, but some other results around the league would need to go in their favor, too.

Bournemouth already find themselves in the top ten and they are coming off an impressive 1-0 victory over Manchester United. The Cherries have taken five points from their last three matches, but have only scored one goal in the process. Despite only scoring once, they can find confidence in the fact that they have maintained three consecutive clean sheets.

Newcastle United and Bournemouth competed in two close matches last season and I expect tomorrow’s clash to be another close battle. The Cherries’ back-line are aiming to claim their fourth consecutive clean sheet and the Magpies’ front three are hoping to break their scoring drought as the pressure continues to pile up on their shoulders.

The two key players to watch for tomorrow are Joelinton for Newcastle United and Ryan Fraser for Bournemouth. Joelinton’s £40m price tag sets a high standard of expectations, and the primary expectation for him is to score goals. One goal in 11 matches is nowhere near enough, so look for the Toon to deliver more crosses and passes his way tomorrow. Fraser always has a great game against the Magpies. His blistering pace and accuracy shooting from distance makes him a dynamic threat for Martin Dubravka, Jamaal Lascelles and company.

Predictions in the Media

Well, there are no surprises in the predictions from pundits this week as Charlie Nicholas and Mark Lawrenson find it difficult to split the two sides. However, it’s not all positive news for the Toon. Here is how the former Celtic and Liverpool players’ predictions look:

Mark Lawrenson (BBC): Newcastle United 0-2 Bournemouth

Charlie Nicholas (Sky Sports): Newcastle United 2-2 Bournemouth

Our Predictions

For the third consecutive week, Carson and I are optimistic that Newcastle United can get the job done. Bournemouth have sufficient talent to claim a comfortable win at St. James’ Park, but Newcastle United are finally starting to click as a unit, and coming off a big win in London should serve as a major boost of confidence for the Magpies.

Carson Merk: Newcastle United 2-0 Bournemouth

Durim Halimi: Newcastle United 2-1 Bournemouth