Match Preview – Newcastle v Sunderland
Sunday October 31, St James Park
Given their accents, few who live outside the area can understand a word these two rival fans say, but believe me when I say that this is a local rivalry to match City v United and Everton v Liverpool – if not always in quality then at least in drunken passion.
It’s been a great start to the season for the Black Cats, sitting in an almost unprecedented 7th spot on the table and coming off an impressive 1-0 win over the well credentialed and high performing Aston Villa. Darren Bent may finally have found a home here, and with some strong support from the likes of Malbranque and Bramble (pending of course police action over numerous unsavoury allegations), Sunderland is starting to show that maybe, just maybe, there might be a spot in Europe for them next year.
Newcastle meanwhile are enjoying a strong start themselves; hovering around the top ten for most of the year and showing old school Toon town grit with a road win over West Ham last time out. They face a tough few days though, with a Carling Cup clash against Arsenal mid-week followed by the derby encounter against Sunderland in our featured Match of the Day.
Can Newcastle get the points in front of their adoring St James’ Park faithful? Or will the Black Cats hot run continue?
Put me down for a Newcastle win. I’m expecting plenty of fight in this one, but the home crowd should make the difference. Kevin Nolan to score.
Home (Newcastle) 2-1, Nolan
The Shirtman
PS – If you do not submit your tips prior to kick off you will be credited with the Shirtman’s score.
