Newcastle will head to Stamford Bridge riding a wave of confidence following their impressive start to the campaign. That result proved that last season was no fluke and Alan Pardew will fancy his side’s chances of getting something from Chelsea.
Hatem Ben Arfa was excellent against Spurs providing the winner from the penalty spot, but it was his all-round performance that stood out. The French winger had a difficult summer with France at the Euros and just looks pleased to be playing again. Demba Ba took his goal brilliantly and along with Papa Demba Cisse they will be a real threat to the Blues’ suspect back four.
Fans may recall that Newcastle pulled off one of the results of last year at the Bridge where Cisse scored two genuine world class goals. With the 2-0 victory they extended their unbeaten run there to three matches and they also dumped the Blues out of the 2011/12 Carling Cup.
Reading gave the European champions a run for their money in the week and with a far stronger squad, Newcastle can take a share of the spoils.
Brendan Rodgers’ start at Liverpool couldn’t have gone much worse. 3-0 and a man sent off isn’t ideal, but I liked the way the manager came out to speak so frankly about the time it will take to instill his philosophy on the Reds. The problem is that Manchester City are at Anfield on Sunday to likely cause further problems for the club.
The champions have scored six goals in two games, including the Community Shield, and Liverpool will now have to find a way to stop them without City-target Daniel Agger. Carlos Tevez looks a real handful with two goals in as many outings and his form will help compensate for the loss of Sergio Aguero for a few weeks. Of course City’s depth means that Mario Balotelli will step in, who was actually sent off in this league fixture last year.
I’m doing the commentary for Sky Sports 3D on Sunday and I’m looking forward to seeing how Roberto Mancini will tighten things up at the back. City have been clinical up top, but the four goals conceded will be more frustrating for the Italian.
Liverpool at home will have to come out of their shells in front of the Kop which will play into City’s hands perfectly. I cannot see Liverpool keeping out City for 90 minutes and a comfortable away win is worth backing. I like the 3-1 scoreline at around 24.0 on the exchange.
Betting on BETDAQ – Alan’s Punts:
Chelsea v Newcastle: Back Newcastle with +1.5 Asian handicap at 1.77
Liverpool v Man City: Back Man City at 2.48
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