Prediction: West Brom vs Newcastle

Prediction: West Brom win

Best Odds: 8/5

Bookmaker: bet365

We’re entering slightly unknown territory this week with all FA Cup fifth round ties being set to take place across the next few days as opposed to at the weekend. There are sixteen teams left in the race to win football’s oldest club competition, and while the big boys are still in play, there’s a very real chance that one of the ‘lesser fancied’ sides could go all the way. Today we’ll be taking a look at two such examples as West Bromwich Albion prepare for the arrival of Newcastle United.

West Brom

While nothing is certain in a league like the Championship it certainly seems as if the Baggies are on their way back to the big time. They know how to handle this division and through an ambitious manager alongside a well-structured squad, they seem to have put a bit of distance between themselves and the chasing pack. Now, with ten games left to play, it’s all about keeping their eyes on the prize – which is why it’s worth keeping an eye on how their FA Cup journey impacts them.

Team News

Diangana and Ferguson have been ruled out through injury whereas Robinson is cup-tied and Sawyers is suspended. Hegazi is a big doubt after coming off against Wigan, whereas Gareth Barry is expected to feature.

Newcastle

The lack of goals in this Newcastle team is concerning, but what’s arguably even worse is the lack of trust in manager Steve Bruce right now. He was never viewed as the right man for the job when Rafa Benitez left the club and that continues to be the case with just two months of the season left to play. Still, the club rarely does well in this competition, meaning that one saving grace for Bruce could be a trip to Wembley if they can string two more wins together.

Team News

Dummett, Manquillo, Carroll and Muto have been ruled out through injury with Atsu and Krafth being doubts. Saint-Maximim is expected to play some role.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting back in April 2018, West Brom beat Newcastle 1-0.
• West Brom have won four, drawn one and lost one of their last six games.
• Newcastle have won one, drawn three and lost two of their last six games.
• West Brom have scored 11 goals and conceded four in their last six games.
• Newcastle have scored three and conceded seven in their last six games.

Conclusion

From a momentum stand point it feels like this game is only trending in one direction: towards a West Bromwich Albion win. The Championship leaders are already playing like a Premier League side in many of their outings, whereas Newcastle just can’t seem to stick the ball in the back of the net. The Hawthorns faithful is going to be loud and lively for this one, and we believe they’re going to edge past the Magpies and into the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.

Prediction: West Brom win

Best Odds: 8/5

Bookmaker: bet365