Newcastle United kickstarted their Premier League campaign with a resounding 2-0 win away to West Ham. Now, Steve Bruce’s team have their sights set on another victory against Brighton at St. James’ Park.
Fears over Rafael Benitez leaving over 12 months ago were quelled with Newcastle United’s finish to last campaign keeping them in the top flight. After a potential takeover falling through, Bruce has put together a competitive team that could fight for a top half of the table finish.
Brighton started the season with a loss to Chelsea at home. The Seagulls put up a strong fight early on, but fell to defeat, 3-1, in the end. Graham Potter’s team rebounded with a Carabao Cup win in midweek against Portsmouth, 4-0.
Newcastle United also claimed a win in the cup in midweek as Ryan Fraser’s goal was enough to see of EFL Championship club Blackburn Rovers. Fans may be getting giddy in the northeast after two wins from two in all competitions.
Last season, both matches in the league between Newcastle United and Brighton finished nil-nil. The last three meetings between the clubs finished in draws and under 2.5 goals scored.
History tells us that Sunday’s game at St. James’ Park is likely to finish with under 2.5 goals scored. Four of the last eight games between the teams saw Newcastle United keep a clean sheet. Based on their early season form, don’t be surprised to see the Magpies keep another clean sheet against Brighton.
Bruce will be without first-choice goalkeeper Martin Duravka. The shot-stopper has a foot/ankle injury. Karl Darlow started on matchday 1 and claimed a clean sheet win. He should get the nod once more in goal.
Fabian Schar, Paul Dummett, and Dwight Gayle are all three ruled out. Winger Allan Saint-Maximin could return from a knock to take his place in the team.
Potter could have Adam Lallana back for the game after the midfielder went off against Chelsea on matchday 1. Ben White is unlikely to play due to a foot issue, meanwhile Florin Andone and Christian Walton are both ruled out.
Bruce improved Newcastle United with his offseason signings. He has his eye on two more players. Those additions could improve the Magpies even more.
Newcastle United should continue their good form against Brighton. Their strong defence should keep a third straight clean sheet versus Brighton with under 2.5 goals scored. Expect Newcastle United to win to nil at home.