Newcastle United v Crystal Palace – Premier League
Newcastle United v Crystal Palace – Premier League Betting Preview + Prediction
30 Apr 2016, St. James’ Park , 14:00 GMT +2
Newcastle are unlikely to make any major changes in personnel from their last game, with just one rotation likely, seeing Wijnaldum replace Ayoze Perez. Coloccini and Janmaat continue to miss out, but the team has improved defensively so the absence isn’t too great. There’s unlikely to be a place for Shelvey, with Tiote and Colback starting once more. They’re in good spirits, being three games unbeaten and will look at this as a massive opportunity to pick up three points, with Crystal Palace having little to play for. They’ll only be satisfied with a win and can’t really afford to drop points, so the longer the game is level the more risks they’ll take. Home fans will offer excellent support, and this is a good chance to take a much needed win.
Zaha is the only notable doubt for Crystal Palace with a slight hamstring complaint, and given there’s little at stake for them it’s unlikely he’ll be risked. Sako can come in with only a slight loss of quality. No other changes are expected from their FA Cup win last weekend, with Pardew having the majority of his first choice side fresh and available for selection. Motivation is questionable, with attention likely to be on the FA Cup final in a few weeks as there’s very little threat of relegation. They’ll set up to play on the counter and would be pleased with a point, though Pardew would like to win at his former club. They’re not a free-scoring side, so getting the opening goal will be important for a win as they struggle to keep clean sheets.
There’s a real growing sense of optimism around Newcastle at the moment, with the team taking five much needed points from their last three games. The comeback from 2-0 down to draw against Liverpool will be a major confidence boost and they’ll see this as a game they can win. At home the fans will be right behind the team, making a positive atmosphere, particularly against former manager Alan Pardew. Belief in the side is growing and they could climb out the bottom three with a win, which is a major carrot for the side, but there’s a lot of pressure on to get a result. Take Newcastle to deliver!
Prediction: Newcastle -0.5
Odds: 1.97 SBOBET