Pressure is already building on a number of clubs as the new Premier League season gets underway. As failing teams struggle to stay afloat and title contenders make statements, the table is starting to take shape. Momentum is vital at this stage of the campaign, and every point matters.
On opposite sides of the spectrum, Newcastle wants to make a run at Europe, while Wolves just wants to stay in business. Their next matchup is therefore more than simply a regular matchup; it’s an opportunity to establish the tone for the following weeks.
Newcastle United: Still No Victory
The Magpies, led by Eddie Howe, have yet to win a game. They have actually played some excellent football, despite their record of two draws and one loss.
Against Liverpool: Newcastle fought valiantly until being denied by a late goal from Rio Ngumoha, Liverpool’s teenage sensation, despite Anthony Gordon’s dismissal for a careless challenge on Virgil van Dijk.
A goalless draw against Leeds (Elland Road) demonstrated defensive sturdiness but a lack of creativity. Newcastle will view Saturday as a fantastic chance to finally score three points, especially with St. James’ Park on their side.
Wolves: A Club in Crisis?
Wolves’ narrative is gloomy. Three consecutive defeats have landed them at the bottom of the table. Performances have been lackluster, and the team appears to be lacking in both creativity and finishing strength.
Manager Victor Pereira is already under scrutiny, with pressure rising from both supporters and the board. Unless results improve fast, Wolves may face another relegation battle.
Analysis of Odds
Newcastle to Win (1.47):
The Magpies are clear home favorites. Their performances have been stronger than the results indicate, and St. James’ Park is a difficult venue for any opponent. However, at 1.47, the price isn’t particularly attractive unless combined in an accumulator or partnered with other markets such as Over 2.5 Goals.
Draw (4.60):
The odds for a stalemate are attractive, but context suggests otherwise. Newcastle have only drawn once at home in their last ten league games, while Wolves’ weak defense seldom lasts 90 minutes without conceding. This makes the draw less tempting.
Wolves (8.00):
Three losses out of three and no attacking rhythm indicate that an upset is quite unlikely. Still, for those who enjoy high-risk bets, Wolves at 8.00 could be considered “value” if Newcastle falters again. However, based on form, this is more of a lottery ticket bet.
Chances of Winning %
Over/Under Goals
Over 2.5 Goals (1.80):
appears to be the strongest market for this fixture. Newcastle are likely to assault from the start, pressing Wolves hard and forcing errors. With the home fans behind them and Eddie Howe urging urgency, the Magpies should have plenty of opportunities.
Wolves’ defense has been their weakest link, leaving gaps, lacking structure, and leaking goals. This might mean disaster for Newcastle. Even if the Wolves don’t offer much offensively, their defensive blunders indicate that goals are on the way.
Over 2.5 Goals is now priced at 1.80, which appears to be a good value given Newcastle’s attacking ambition and Wolves’ defensive shortcomings. But there’s a way to extract even more value from this market.
If you wait and the game is cagey — say, the first 10-15 minutes go by without a goal — the live odds on Over 2.5 normally rise to 2.00 or 2.10. This gives you the same bet but with a greater margin.
Anytime Goalscorer
Yoane Wissa
is a player to keep an eye on after a spectacular deadline-day signing. After selling Alexander Isak to Liverpool for a stunning £130 million, Eddie Howe moved fast to get Yoane Wissa from Brentford.
With Anthony Gordon suspended, Wissa is set to lead the line. His quickness, pressuring, and finishing abilities make him an ideal prospect to open his Newcastle account. The odds for Wissa anytime are likely to be in the 2.20-2.50 level, which appears to be excellent value given the matchup.
Hwang Hee-chan
Wolves’ scoring possibilities are limited. With Strand Larsen unlikely due to injury, Hwang could get the start. If he does, his direct running poses a minor threat to Newcastle’s back line. However, given Wolves’ general form, his opportunities are restricted. His odds will most likely be higher about 3.50+ but it is a long-shot play.
BTTS – Both Team to Score
The odds are pretty tight here – Yes at 2.00 and No at 1.90. Honestly, this is one of those markets where you’re more likely to lose money than make any.
Wolves just don’t look sharp going forward, and expecting them to trouble Newcastle at St. James’ Park feels like a stretch. At the same time, betting on “No” isn’t much fun either, because one sloppy goal or a late mistake ruins the bet and the return isn’t big enough to justify the risk.
My Picks
Newcastle to Win: safest play given Wolves’ form.
In-Play Angle: If Wolves score first, back Newcastle to come from behind. The odds will shoot up and still make sense given how poor Wolves are at holding leads.
Over 2.5 Goals: best market here, plenty of chances expected with Newcastle pressing high.
Anytime Goalscorer: If Yoane Wissa makes the starting XI, he’s worth a punt. He’ll be leading the line with Gordon suspended, and the script is set for him to mark his debut with a goal.
Final Verdict
Newcastle are due a win, and this fixture looks tailor-made for them. Wolves’ confidence is shot, their manager is under pressure, and their defense is shaky. With home support behind them, Eddie Howe’s men should finally get the boost they need.
