ENGLISH PREMIER BETTING PICK - NEWCASTLE UNITED V MIDDLESBROUGH

English Premier

2009-05-11 - Newcastle United vs Middlesbrough

A Sports Betting Pick by Cruiser

Analysis:

These two clubs are battling against relegation and both are tied on 31 points as they contest this Tyne-Tees derby between these two local rivals.

After West Brom's win yesterday, three clubs are tied on 31 points but all are within touching distance of Hull City so both sides will be eager to get a win here.

Newcastle will enter this match knowing they got a good record against Boro. The Teessiders have won only once in their last 13 visits to St James' Park - that came in 2001 when Alen Boksic grabbed two goals. Also with former Boro star Mark Viduka in the starting lineup, as he has scored five goals in his last four appearances against his one-time employers.

Newcastle does have a few selection issues starting this match though. Joey Barton is suspended following his red-card at Liverpool and Alan Smith, who started in midfield alongside him is also rated doubtful. With both players out, another former Boro man - Geremi, could get a start here. Kevin Nolan will also be hoping to get a recall in this match.

Jose Enrique is battling to be fit ahead of this tie while Damien Duff again will start as a makeshift left back player. Steven Taylor, could make a surprise start here after he recovered from an ankle problem.

The visitors also have selection problems ahead of this tie. For a start,captain Emanuel Pogatetz is out in defence. Andrew Taylor is back in the squad but Southgate may opt to start with Justin Hoyte.
David Wheater is rated doubtful ahead of this clash so they may be in big problems since Chris Riggott is already sidelined. Thus we could see Southgate drop Matthew Bates back into defence after he played in midfield. Rhys Williams who played on loan at Burnley is also available for the visitors.

Julio Arca or Didier Digard will come into midfield should Bates start in defence. In attack, Afonso Alves is likely to come in to replace Marlon King with either Tuncay or Jeremie Aliadiere partnering him.

I will go for Newcastle to get the win here and give the 1/2 ball here.

Cheers and good luck,
Cruiser

The Pick :

BEST BETTING TIP :

Take Newcastle to win this match.