West Brom’s trip to Newcastle on Sunday could prove to be one of the more interesting clashes this weekend.

Both clubs have enjoyed strong starts to the season and find themselves competing in the top half of the table. Newcastle’s form has been built on a robust defence that survived in tact with ten men for so long against archrivals Sunderland last week, and there is nobody the Magpies fear at home in the league these days. West Brom are flying under Steve Clarke and were unlucky to get nothing from their game with Manchester City. They will look to impose their own possession game at St. James’, which will prove easier without the disruptive presence of suspended Tiote in midfield for Newcastle.

Both sides also possess strikers in good form; Shane Long has finally begun to look at home at this level, whilst Demba Ba’s reputation is continually enhanced with every performance, making him look more and more like one of the Premier league’s best bargain buys from Alan Pardew. Long is ideal away from home as his work-rate, pace and movement can create chances as well as relieve pressure when not in possession. Ba’s finishing ability has been second to none this season, whilst his physicality and holdup play allows Newcastle to build attacks around him.

However, perhaps a larger influence on Newcastle so far this year has been captain Colloccini, who Pardew compared to Bobby Moore earlier this week. His eulogising may have been extreme, but there is no denying that he has been first class at the back this season and that Newcastle look more assured defensively, especially given the return of Tim Krul in goal after injury.

It should certainly be a tight, possibly low scoring, affair between these two. Many will be tempted by the draw at 11/5, but I’m backing Newcastle to sneak a narrow win at somewhere around even money, a large price for the Magpies at home. Those in search of a bit more value should have a look at the double result market, where the HT draw, FT Newcastle at 7/2 offers a bigger return. A punt on Demba Ba to grab the last goal might prove a good investment too at 11/2.

Newcastle vs West Brom Betting Tips

Newcastle to win – Evens with Bet365 – open a new account get £200 free.

Demba Ba to score last – 11/2 with Coral – get £30 free when you open a new account.

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