England Premier League
Sunday 15th August 2021
Kick off at 2pm BST
Venue: St. James' Park
Match Preview:
Newcastle have finished in mid table for 3 seasons in a row and last season they were dicing with a relegation battle for the majority of the season. However the Magpies were able to power away from danger when it mattered and manager Steve Bruce will be hoping that his side can continue that form and get off to a positive start this time around.
Newcastle lost 2 of their six pre-season friendlies and didn’t really face strong tests playing lower league English clubs only. Transfers have been scant but the club will be delighted that they have secured the signature of Joe Willock from Arsenal after the midfielder impressed on loan last season. One would think that the objective for Newcastle this season will be to try and finish in the top half of the table.
West Ham had a superb season when probably most believed that with David Moyes returning the club could struggle. But the team really showed spirit and played some great football to prove many sceptics wrong and finished in 6th place. It means that the Hammers will play Europa League football this season.
West Ham remained unbeaten in their pre-season games and their last was an impressive victory over Atalanta which finished 2-0. Felipe Anderson has left the club and they have brought in Alphonse Areola on loan from PSG Craig Dawson has also been purchased from Watford for £2m, but there are not many changes to be had at the club so far over the summer.
Team News:
Newcastle: Karl Darlow could miss out with a lack of match fitness. Martin Dubravka is out with a foot injury. Paul Dummett will miss the beginning of the season with his calf.
West Ham: Manuel Lanzini has a groin injury but will be assessed. Angelo Ogbonna has a hamstring but is back in training but is only 50/50 to make the cut for the first game.
Newcastle vs West Ham Head to Head:
Newcastle won this fixture 3-2 last season.
It’s been 3 years since West Ham won away to Newcastle.
There is a 70% chance to see over 2.5 goals.
Newcastle vs West Ham Prediction:
West Ham did so well last season and that is great but there will be many still questioning the club, can they perform to be consistant once again, or was this a one off season? Playing in Europe may hinder the side at times but right now they can concentrate on one competition and try to get off to a good start but away to Newcastle will not be easy.
The teams look fairly equal but the Hammers have had a better pre-season and this should be a close call. It’s always a longer trip for the Hammers this fixture and with fans back we should see more of an home advantage playing its part, so we will opt for the home side to get at least a point, this could be a very tight game.
Newcastle vs West Ham Betting Tips:
Asian handicap (+0.5 Newcastle) at 1.675
Both teams to score at 1.66
Anytime goalscorer: Callum Wilson at 2.50
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