Sunday’s televised game might not look like a thriller on paper, but at least it offers two improving teams the chance to gain more momentum in what is, possibly, a relegation six-pointer.
Okay, so the Magpies have soared into the top six so talk of relegation is a little demeaning, but staying up will remain their priority until the mathematics say they are safe.
Rafa Benitez’s side have enjoyed shot supremacy in each of their last four outing – winning three of those, and so that bunch of players has every right to be bullish in their confidence.
Brighton finally broke their top flight duck with victory over West Brom, and they probably should have doubled their tally at Bournemouth last week after taking the lead through Solly March.
But doubts creeped to the surface again, and allied to Chris Hughton’s defensive outlook the Seagulls managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory against their South Coast rivals.
The Brighton players will know that was an opportunity missed, and they may be made to lick their wounds by a revitalised Newcastle United.
Recommended Bet
Newcastle +0.00 Asian Handicap (101/100 with bet365)
