Match Preview : Newcastle United vs Manchester United

Midweek sees league leaders and Champions elect travel to Tyneside in search of 3 points that will edge them ever closer to the tittle. Newcastle have had an indifferent season, and after appointing Alan Pardew as manager, not much has really changed, which has more or less occupied a relatively safe position is regard to the relegation battle. Expect goals, and and entertaining evening. But this is that kind of a game where usually the better team wins.

Manchester United go into the game on the back of a morale-sapping defeat to bitter rivals Man City in the FA Cup semi-final, at Wembley. In a game where they had their chances, one can't argue with the fact that United were just not good enough on the day. Paul Scholes saw red for a dangerous challenge on Zabaleta, and will be suspended for this game, and crucially, Everton and a trip to the Emirates. The moody ginger-headed maestro will perhaps not be missed as gravely, with the likes of Anderson, Park and Fletcher all in contention to fill in. Edwin Van Der Sar blamed some fatigue for the limp display at Wembley. One could probably see where he's coming from, as United have played some massive games in the past 3 weeks.

Also, United welcome back Wayne Rooney after serving his 2-match ban for foul mouthing a Sky TV camera. He has been in fine form, holding a brilliant record against the Toon. Over time, the ability of United to respond well to crisis and bad results has characterized the club, and Tuesday should be no different. Expect United to come out all guns blazing, as they know that the Premier League is a major priority for them this season. They will be angry, and perhaps Newcastle will be at the end of a backlash. Also, Arsenal's disappointing last gasp draw against Liverpool will spur United on to kill the Gunners' tittle challenge (who travel to Tottenham on Thursday) Expect goals. 

Newcastle, on the other hand, should not fear United. Despite their dismal record against the Red Devils, home and away, Newcastle are a team that can spring a surprise. St. James is never an easy place to go to. The passionate fans, and rocking atmosphere have earned the Toon many a result this season, notably an extra-ordinary come back from 4-0 down to earn a draw against Arsenal. Manager Alan Pardew knows the weather of a relegation dog fight, and will be first to point out the importance of picking up points wherever possible. Anything against United would be a big bonus. And with the incredibly tight bottom half of the table, anything could happen. 

He will encourage his players to fight, and deny their illustious opponents time and space. Midfielders Kevin Nolan and Chiek Tiote have picked up most bookings this season, as Newcastle rank in as a poorly disciplined side. But, in Nolan, they have the highest scoring midfielder this season, with 12 goals. So, like mentioned earlier, expect goals ! Jose Enrique has been in fine form this season, and should expect a tough game against Valencia and Nani. Defenders Coloccini and Taylor are susceptible, and need to come up with a big game to keep United out. Else, that is where their major weakness lies. 

It's that last stretch, and with the end in sight, United are sniffing glory. Newcastle would do very well to get anything out of this game. Expect United to win, by a comfortable margin.