Prediction: Sunderland vs Newcastle

15th January 2011

Sunderland enter the Tyne-Wear derby looking to get revenge on their neighbours for the 5:1 defeat in the first part of the season, while Newcastle want to continue the good run of results and get even closer to their rivals. The mere fact both sides are in a very good form at the moment should guarantee us an exciting game at the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland are enjoying one of the most successful seasons in their history and while that is partly due to the heavy investments in the playing squad over the last few years, boss Steve Bruce has got to be congratulated for what he has done with this side. The Black Cats lost just one game against the top 7 sides from last season during this Premiership campaign, which proves they can play with the best of them and they are certainly showing no signs of slowing down. Back to back wins over Blackburn and Aston Villa served as a major confidence boost following the home defeat to Blackpool, while it is unlikely the Black Cats will be too downhearted by the FA Cup defeat to Notts County, especially after Steve Bruce had fielded a second string side. Nedum Onuoha should return to the side after recovering from a hamstring injury, while Lee Cattermole and Danny Welbeck could also be available.

Newcastle are also more than impressive this season, as they are closing in on the 40-point mark thought to be needed for survival, meaning they travel to Sunderland in very good spirits. The victory at Wigan and the hammering of West Ham were marred by the disappointing FA Cup defeat to League Two side Stevenage, and we are yet to see how Alan Pardew’s side will react to that loss. The Mapies seem to have big problems on the travels, having lost four of their last five away games by at least a two-goal margin, including the loss at Stevenage, so we cannot expect them to fare much better against very good Sunderland side. Numerous selection problems only add to worries, seeing Andy Carroll, Cheikh Tiote and Sol Campbell are unavailable for this clash.

Conclusion

Both teams have shown a lot of promise this season but I cannot help but feel Sunderland are closer to winning this game. Newcastle largely struggle on the travels, while they are also without several key players, which is something the Black Cats should be able to take advantage of.

Verdict: Home win Sunderland (1)

Best Odds: 11/10

Bookmaker: 888Sport