Last updated & checked: 10/08/2021
Here we have two Premier League veterans that have trodden very similar paths as we head towards the later periods of the season. In fact, they both sit at exactly 31 points apiece – although Arsenal are a couple of places higher in the standings. A victory here for either could see them gain some tangible momentum in a time where each appears to be treading ground.
Newcastle have been short of creativity and that’s reflected in two rather drab draws in their last couple of Premier League outings against Everton and Norwich. Meanwhile, Arsenal have managed to top that stalemate streak with four league contests in a row ending in a draw. What most fans are most hoping for here is for one of these teams to showcase the type of progression we’ve seen from then in the FA Cup to finally push the needle in their domestic league.
Arsenal vs Newcastle United Prediction: Arsenal 2-0 Newcastle
Putting aside uninspiring recent results, we do think there’s plenty to be excited about here. These teams have history: they know how to beat one another and they know that the clock is running down for them to turn this season into something memorable. So, with that in mind, we do see this going to a conclusive result one way or another. And it could go either way. However, based on their recent performances – particularly in the FA Cup – we have to give the nod to Arsenal due to Newcastle’s struggles with creating offensive chances. Therefore, our scoreline prediction is 2-0 to Arsenal.
Our recommended tip: Half time score – Arsenal 2-0
Not only do we think that Arsenal are going to win 2-0 but we also think there’s a decent chance that both of those goals will occur in the first half. In the last three instances when Arsenal have scored more than once – against Bournemouth, Chelsea and Manchester United – they have both come within the same half. We think there’s a good chance this trend will continue here and, just as we saw against Bournemouth, we expect them to hit the ground running, meaning two goals in 45 minutes seems like a solid possibility. You can get 7/1 odds from BetVictor on this prediction.
Previous matches
Well over 150 games have been played between these two, with the first taking place back in 1893 in League Division Two. Football has changed immeasurably since then, as have these clubs, but this has remained an interesting and usually close fixture all that time. Arsenal have the overall statistical advantage, but not by much. Their recent record is far more impressive. In their last 16 matches against Newcastle, they have only lost once, and have won 13 of those outings. That will no doubt be a big psychological advantage for the Gunners.
Top 3 Premier League Bookies
Players to watch: Joe Willock & Allan Saint-Maximin
Arsenal: Joe Willock
The key reason we have predicted Arsenal to win this game is their greater attacking potential and a huge part of that is their ability to adapt and overcome. There’s perhaps no better example of their capabilities in that regard than midfielder Joe Willock, who showcased his brilliance in an absolutely exemplary performance against Bournemouth. He may not have hit the back of the net himself, but his efforts were a vital part of providing a platform for others to get the job done.
Newcastle United: Allan Saint-Maximin
The Magpies’ chances rest significantly on their ability to create offensive chances and prove they have the creativity to crack the code of their opponent’s defences. If there’s one man on their team capable of just that, it is Allan Saint-Maximin. His brilliance shines even in otherwise disappointing efforts from Newcastle, like we saw against Norwich. He has the killer instinct to finish off an opponent, perfectly showcased by his extra time goal against Oxford in the FA Cup.
