Newcastle vs Southampton
Newcastle fans were treated to a rare yet brilliant victory at Old Trafford last Saturday lunchtime.
Alan Pardew was victorious at the home of the Red Devils as Newcastle United Manager, something that hasn’t been achieved for 41 years. Pardew has been labelled as a big head before but on this occasion I think we can allow him some bragging rights, we were sensational.
Next up is a tricky home fixture against in form Southampton. They are a Club that have gone through a very positive transition in the last year or so and have looked excellent this season. They have found themselves in the top 4 at times this period, worlds apart from the team that were playing League One football a couple of years ago.
Alan Pardew will face his former club, who still feels bitter over his dismissal after winning the club The Johnstone’s Paint Trophy. The Londoner will hope for a similar outcome to last seasons 4-2 victory at St James’ Park in which Cisse scored an absolute screamer.
Southampton:
Victor Wanyama, Nathaniel Clyne, Morgan Schneiderlin, Artur Boruc and Guly do Prado all of missed the 1-1 home draw with Manchester City last Saturday. It is to seen whether any of the players will return to the squad when they venture to the North East.
Newcastle United:
Yohan Cabaye’s booking at Old Trafford was the Frenchman’s 5th of the season, so he is forced to sit Southampton’s visit out. Other than that there are fresh injury concerns and we should almost be at full strength although Moussa Sissoko is treading thin ice and is only a booking away from a suspension of his own.
Previously…
We have a good home record against the Saints, winning 15 of the last 20 played at St James’ Park. Including last seasons comfortable 4-2 victory.
Southampton did beat us last season at their place prior to our 4-2 victory at our place, that was under then Manager Nigel Adkins. It was not a memorable afternoon for the travelling fans who saw Newcastle beaten 2-0.
Match stats and facts…
Southampton boast the second best defensive record away from home in the country. Only Arsenal have conceded less than Soton’s 8 on the road.
Victory for Newcastle would make it their fourth win in a row at St James’ Park.
Southampton have only beat Newcastle twice in the last 20 attempts at St James’.
Final thought…
Southampton are in good form and will fancy themselves to fight the likes of Newcastle to challenge for European spots come the end of the season. They will also come to Tyneside believing they can come away with something.
Mauricio Pochettino has done an excellent job during his short reign and will come and have a right go against a team that have leaked goals for fun this season.
I think it will be close, I think it will be difficult but I expect us to edge this one….just!
Howay the lads!
Date: Saturday, 14th December, 2013
Time: 15.00pm
Venue: St James’ Park
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