Matches between Liverpool and Newcastle United are always fun to watch, and this upcoming fixture will surely be no different. The matches almost always guarantee a goal to be scored throughout the game, which makes this matchup one of the fan favorites. As the current Premier League standings currently stand, there is only a 4 point difference between 5th and 15th place. Of course, it is just the beginning phase of the league, but there is a lot of mobility in the standings. Both Liverpool and Newcastle haven’t quite found their groove yet, but this match could help with that. The match will be played at 5:45 AM (PST) in St. James’ Park.
Liverpool Team News
Although Brendan Rodgers has had some time to accommodate his new players to his system,the system hasn’t looked effective yet. The defense has been very sloppy in their recent games and the offense has not been optimal either. In their latest Capital One Cup game against Swansea City, the Reds barely managed to snag a win with 2-1 with late goals by Mario Balotelli and Dejan Lovren. This was to everyone’s surprise since both players have yet to make a significant impact for the team.
Since Liverpool’s offense has not been optimal, especially with the absence of Daniel Sturridge, much of the blame has gone to Mario Balotelli. The young Italian has yet to score in a Premier League game, and people are scapegoating him for some of the team’s troubles. Although Balotelli has not looked terrible on the field, his lack of goals has certainly affected his image. Maybe with the return of Daniel Sturridge, Mario Balotelli will start to play in a system that adequately fits him.
Newcastle United Team News
Newcastle United have lately been in great form, especially with a 3 win streak. Notably, their latest win was against Manchester City in the Capital One Cup. With a win over one of the Premier League’s top teams, Newcastle will definitely have a surge of confidence against Liverpool, who have been struggling. Considering that they are currently in 14th place in the Premier League, Newcastle seem to have a chance to defeat Liverpool. Since most of the squad is relatively young, the Magpies are not doing too bad.
In regards to injuries, Newcastle has stated that midfielder Cheick Tiote will miss out this goal scoring clash due to a calf nuisance. Newcastle’s striker Papiss Cissé is doubtful for the game as well since he has had some problems with his kneecap. Even though Cissé has been missing some games lately, the team has managed to cope without him for the time being.
Prediction
As always, this match is guaranteed to have at least one goal. Newcastle has been in great form lately and Liverpool may be getting back on the right path. Balotelli’s latest goal against Swansea City could be the spark he has been looking for lately. This is likely to be a thrilling match considering that the squads are pretty young and both teams need this win. After what is probably going to be another exciting clash between the two teams, I see this game ending in a 1-1 draw.
TV Schedule
The Newcastle vs Liverpool match will be televised on NBCS and mun2 at 5:45AM (PST).
