Everton in search of back-to-back wins as Newcastle clash looms.

2024-10-01

This Saturday evening, Everton will aim to build on their first win of the season as they host a resilient Newcastle side at Goodison Park, with both teams eager to secure a consecutive victory.

Everton

Everton picked up their maiden victory in last weekend’s comeback 2-1 win over Crystal Palace. A brace from Dwight McNeil [47’, 54’] helped the Toffees overcome a one-goal deficit after Palace had struck inside the first ten minutes.

This much-awaited victory, which left Everton with three points from a possible 18 [1W, 1D, 4L], may bring a positive atmosphere as they prepare to face Newcastle at home this weekend. Everton, having a recent form of [LLLDW], are now unbeaten in two Premier League games, though this comes on the heels of a three-game losing streak from a leading position.

While back-to-back victories might be ambitious given the strength of the opposition, Dyche will be hoping his side can at least secure a point against Newcastle. Fortunately, Everton have lost just three of their last 20 Premier League home games against Newcastle [12W, 5D, 3L] and have won six of their last eight league matches at Goodison Park [6W, 0D, 2L].

Sean Dyche might stick with the 4-2-3-1 formation with Dominic Calvert-Lewin in attack for the fixture against Newcastle. Nathan Patterson is doubtful for the weekend, and as many as three players, including Seamus Coleman, are ruled out until after the international break.

Newcastle United

Newcastle United earned a hard-fought point in a 1-1 draw against Manchester City last weekend. This result followed a surprising 3-1 loss to Fulham, indicating some inconsistency in their performance.

They recently secured a 1-0 third-round victory over AFC Wimbledon in the EFL Cup, dominating possession with 79% of the ball. Despite five shots on target, Fabian Schär scored the only goal from the penalty spot just before halftime.

Their objective for Saturday’s trip to Everton will be to achieve consecutive victories across all competitions. Newcastle has won five of their last eight Premier League meetings against Everton, a record that matches their total in the preceding 24 encounters.

A win would potentially elevate Newcastle into the top five, depending on the outcomes of other intertwined fixtures. With recent goals coming from penalty spots, the Magpies could find the back of the net from penalties in three successive games if they win another spot-kick.

Eddie Howe might employ a 4-3-3 formation featuring Harvey Barnes, though Alexander Isak is in doubt due to a toe injury. Anthony Gordon is also likely to be part of the attacking lineup against Everton.