Morecambe v Newcastle: Expect late goals at the Globe

Morecambe v Newcastle, Wednesday 19:45, Sky Sports 4, Match Odds: Morecambe 6.86/1, Newcastle 1.564/7, The Draw 4.67/2

Few Premier League sides need a Capital One Cup win more than Newcastle after their shambolic start the new campaign, but they face a stern test away at League Two side Morecambe.

The Magpies' poor form on the pitch has been compounded by disappointing transfer activity off it, with discontent at a lack of new additions followed by fury at Yohan Cabaye's attempts to force through a move to Arsenal by going on strike.

Newcastle have lost their past two Capital One Cup matches, away at Manchester United and Blackburn (after extra time), but progressed through their four previous ties on the road in the competition.

All six of those matches were either settled by one goal or level after 90 minutes, and late drama has been a feature of Newcastle's participation in the competition in recent seasons, with eight goals coming in regular time in the 80th minute and beyond in their last seven games.

Morecambe beat Wolves 1-0 to set up the tie, and are aiming to equal their best-ever performance in the tournament by qualifying for the third round.

In the 2011/12 season, all three of Newcastle's Capital One Cup ties went to extra time and, with one goal or fewer the difference in seven of their last nine matches in the tournament, a close game can be expected at Morecambe.

Extra time could be on the cards again, so backing the draw is a good option, while Newcastle to win after 120 minutes is also well priced at 8.415/2.

Half With Most Goals

In seven of Newcastle's last nine matches in the tournament there have been more goals in the second half than the first, and the trend has also held in three out of Morecambe's past five Capital One Cup games.

Yet to score this season and lacking an in-form striker, Newcastle could start slowly at the Globe Arena and, as three of the four goals at the stadium this season have come in the second half, that is likely where the action will be.

Recommended Bets

Best Bet: Back the second half to have the most goals @ 2.0621/20
Back The Draw @ 4.67/2