Prediction: Newcastle vs Manchester City

5th May 2012

Manchester City may have neutralized the eight-point gap behind Manchester United with a derby victory on Monday, but all their efforts will be in vain if they fail to beat Newcastle at St James Park. The Magpies are brimming with confidence after the 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge and desperately need the points to keep their Champions League dream alive, so I have no doubts this is going to be one of the most exciting games of the season.

Had someone offered Newcastle a Europa League berth before the season started, they would have taken it without any consideration, but it is fair to say nobody at the club will be satisfied with 5th place in the standings considering the circumstances. The Magpies have been absolutely brilliant from the very start to the season and have especially shown a lot of character during the season finale, so I dare say they deserve Champions League qualification. Many people believed Alan Pardew’s men would not be able to recover from the 4-0 defeat to Wigan, but they instead quickly regrouped and produced a stunning performance to beat top 4 rivals Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. It was no wonder that two-goal hero Papiss Cisse has taken all the plaudits once again, but it is important to note all of his teammates were amazing as well. Newcastle now face the biggest test of the season as they take on Premier League leaders Manchester City, but Alan Pardew’s men need not be afraid of any side at the moment. The hosts are hoping to have full-back Danny Simpson back to the side, but the good news is Cheick Tiote has been cleared to play.

Even Roberto Mancini admitted the title race was effectively over when Manchester United moved eight points clear at the top, and the Italian was certainly delighted to have been proved wrong as his side recorded four straight wins and took advantage of their rivals’ slip-ups to return to the Premiership summit. Having beaten United both home and away and having played great football throughout the season, the Citizens clear deserve to win their first league title after 44 years, but Premiership trophy is likely to remain just a dream if City fail to bring all three points from St James Park. Roberto Mancini’s side have performed well under pressure this term, which gives them reason for optimism, but after winning just 5 of their last 14 games in all competitions, City will clearly have to work hard for the win against Newcastle. Mancini is hoping he can pick the same side that started the Manchester United game, but Joe Hart’s foot injury is proving to be a problem.

Conclusion

Newcastle have been absolutely brilliant of late and they are set to make life difficult for Manchester City, but I don’t think the visitors will miss such a good opportunity to virtually secure the Premier League title. Roberto Mancini has got much more quality players at his disposal and one of his star players is likely to win this game for the Citizens.

Verdict: Away win Manchester City (2)

Best Odds: 3/4

Bookmaker: Ladbrokes