Preview: Newcastle hope to hold off Chelsea at St. James’ Park
By Durim Halimi
Newcastle United enter Saturday’s game as major underdogs, but the Magpies have frustrated the Blues at St. James’ Park a few times in recent history.
Newcastle United are hoping move back into the top ten with a win over Chelsea this weekend, but that task is much easier said than done. Chelsea have been in good form away from home and they are expected to overwhelm the Magpies’ back-line with their young, dynamic attacking core.
Where They Stand
- Chelsea: 4th, 39 points
- Newcastle United: 13th, 26 points
Players to Watch
- Tammy Abraham – 13 goals, 3 assists
- Jorginho – 3 goals, 2 assists
- Miguel Almiron – 2 goals, 1 assist
- Jetro Willems – 2 goals, 2 assists
Analysis
Newcastle United have not won a game since they defeated Crystal Palace (1-0) back in mid-December and they are not expected to claim three points against Chelsea. Despite the odds being against them, the Magpies seem to enjoy playing against superior opponents and they have managed to take seven points from Tottenham, Manchester United and Manchester City this season, so a positive result should not be ruled out.
Chelsea have won three of their last five games and they comfortably handled business against Burnley in their last game. Momentum is on their side, but tomorrow’s game could also be one of those days where the Blues display their inconsistency. Lampard has his men playing well away from home and one would expect them to dominate the possession statistic against Newcastle United, which, in turn, should translate to several chances created.
Chelsea are capable of scoring multiple goals in any given game, but they have only scored eight goals in their last five games. Southampton defeated Chelsea a few weeks ago and Brighton did enough to secure a precious point at home, so Bruce had a few good examples to implement in training this week. The Blues are expected to get the job done, but the Magpies are determined to get back to their winning ways. All in all, this game should be more competitive than some folks think.
Related Story. Proposed Newcastle lineup vs. Chelsea. light
Predictions
It is never easy predicting the outcome of a game that involves Newcastle United, but every now and then Carson and I hit the nail on the head. Our predictions are usually pessimistic when a top four side comes to town, but not this week. Chelsea have more losses than any other team in the top seven. They are dangerous, but not all the time. See our predictions below:
- Carson A. Merk: Newcastle United 2-2 Chelsea
- Durim Halimi: Newcastle United 2-1 Chelsea