SEPT 12: QPR v NEWCASTLE

Monday, Loftus Road, 7.45, Sky Sports 1

AS I predicted Sunday wasn't too super in the EPL and SPL.

The three games produced just three goals but that's what you get when all the big guns are in action on Sunday.

Hibs v Aberdeen looked particularly dull and I was spot on with my prediction there would be no goals in the first 27 minutes. It was 0-0 after 90 and would probably be scoreless if they were still playing now.

The two English games were marginally more interesting and let's hope Monday's offering between QPR and Newcastle can provide some decent fare.

I wouldn't have been too optimistic if it wasn't for the presence of Joey Barton making his debut against the side who freed him last month.

It couldn't have been scripted much better and Barton's bound to be the focal point throughout the 90 minutes.

Fans would prefer the two keepers to be in the spotlight but that's unlikely with both sides struggling for goals.

Newcastle have started the season better than predicted and remain unbeaten with seven points from three games but just three goals.

QPR weren't at the races on day one and were hammered by Bolton but recovered to win at Everton before losing at Wigan.

The form book suggests a draw at 9-4 with Ladbrokes and a low scorer. Under three goals pays 4-6 at sportingbet.

If anyone's going to nick it I'd go for Newcastle who are 21-10 at Stan James and 10-3 with Skybet to win by one.

The last meeting of the sides at Loftus Road in the Championship a couple of seasons ago finished 1-0 to Newcastle. A repeat is 15-2 at boylesports.

QPR are a best 7-5 with bet365 while Barton is 9-2 at Paddy Power to score at any time.

Ladbrokes will refund all first scorer bets if Barton or any of QPR's other new boys break the deadlock.

Two of Newcastle's league goals were scored by Leon Best and he's probably the shout for first scorer at 15-2 with Paddy Power.

Recommendations

Draw

(9-4, Ladbrokes)

Under three goals

(4-6, sportingbet)

🔗 Share on Social Media