Match Preview: Newcastle U21 Vs Crystal Palace U21
Newcastle United U21 host Crystal Palace U21 on Friday night at Whitley Park in a crucial match in the Premier League 2.
Just one point separates the two sides in the Premier League 2 table pre-match, with the young Magpies sitting in 11th place, while Darren Powell’s side are 7th.
Last time out –
Both sides are coming into the match with indifferent form, as Newcastle have just one win in their last three matches in all competitions. Diarmuid O’Carroll’s side had to settle for a 1-1 draw with fifth tier side Tamworth last time out in the National League Cup.
The young Eagles were comfortably beaten 4-1 last time out by league one side Peterborough United in the EFL Trophy. However, their last fixture in the Premier League 2 saw them dismantle Tottenham Hotspur U21 5-1 which included a hat trick for striker Jemiah Umolu, and goals for Sean Grehan and Hindolo Mustapha.
Previous Meetings –
The two sides have met on four previous occasions with the most recent coming in the 2020/21 season. Newcastle were victorious that night through goals from Adam Wilson and current South Shields winger Kyle Crossley.
The magpies have found themselves coming out on top in two previous meetings, with one draw, and one loss.
Team News –
O’Carroll’s side come into the match with a full strength squad with no current injuries or suspensions. Central midfielder Anthony Munda is just one yellow card away from suspension.
Crystal Palace will be without Joe Sheridan, as the defender is still yet to recover from a broken fibula which has kept him out all season thus far.
Players to watch –
Striker and top scorer Ben Parkinson will be as dangerous as ever for Newcastle, and goalkeeper Aidan Harris will be a tough man to beat as the young Magpies have one of the best defences in the division so far this season.
In form man Jemiah Umolu will be looking to build on his hat trick in the previous match for the young Eagles. Experienced defender Rob Holding could also feature as he returns from an injury.
Kickoff from Whitley Park is at 7pm on Friday evening as both sides look for an important three points.
