The Magpies are in 13th place, while the visitors are third, 15 points ahead of the Magpies. Despite the difference in class, both teams are struggling defensively: Newcastle have conceded in all five of their last five matches, losing four of them, while Manchester United has earned 13 points and is battling for a top-four finish.
Both teams' attacks, however, are stable. Newcastle has scored eight goals in five matches, while Manchester United has scored in five consecutive away matches. In their December meeting, the teams failed to produce many goals, winning 1-0 for the Red Devils, but that match could have ended in a higher-scoring draw.
Given the defensive issues on both sides and the consistent finishing of attacking opportunities, a goal-sharp bet seems more than justified. Newcastle need to save their season in front of their fans, while Manchester United will be playing on the counter-attack, which practically guarantees open football.
