Stevenage vs Newcastle – Hosts to get redemption for 1998 injustice
Published:Stevenage felt a heavy sense of injustice when they last squared off with Newcastle over a decade ago and they will be keen to gain redemption for this bad luck when the two go head-to-head in the third round of the FA Cup.
Match Odds
Being the Premier League side, Newcastle are the obvious favourites at 1/2 in the FA Cup betting odds to beat Stevenage, but history has already suggested that their progress is unlikely to be straightforward.
Newcastle eventually got the better of Stevenage in a replay at St James’ Park when the pair clashed in the fourth round of the FA Cup in 1998.
However, the 2-1 victory was clouded in controversy as there was uproar that Alan Shearer’s Newcastle opener did not cross the line.
Stevenage drew the initial home game 1-1 in that season, but there is every chance that they gain full revenge and beat Newcastle.
Ladbrokes offer the best price of 11/2 that Stevenage secure victory and they have only lost twice at home in League Two this season, while Newcastle have been defeated in three of their last four away outings.
Furthermore, Newcastle may be short on strikers with Andy Carroll out with a thigh injury, Shola Ameobi struggling with an ankle problem and Leon Best getting a knock in the demolition of West Ham.
Correct Scoreline
Newcastle may struggle to score more than once against Stevenage, based on the hosts being stingy when it comes to conceding league goals at home and the lack of goals they have scored themselves on their travels.
Stevenage are not overly prolific themselves so another 1-1 draw between the pair may represent good value at 6/1.
Newcastle’s betting odds are also 6/1 to win 1-0, while Stevenage could be good value at 10/1 to triumph 1-0.
A £10 bet on the scorecast of Newcastle winning 1-0 and Nile Ranger scoring the goal could lead to a return of £250. New Ladbrokes customers can sign up here for a free £10 bet.
