Everton in search of back-to-back wins as Newcastle clash looms.

After a maiden season win, the Toffees take on Newcastle on home turf as they go in search of back-to-back victories. Everton vs. Newcastle begins at 17:30 [GMT+1] on Saturday, October 5, at Goodison Park.

Everton picked up their maiden victory in last weekend’s comeback 2-1 win over Crystal Palace after a brace from Dwight McNeil [47’, 54’] helped the Toffees overcome a one-goal deficit. Palace had struck inside the first ten minutes. The much-awaited victory, which left Everton with three points from a possible 18 [1W, 1D, 4L], may bring a positive atmosphere as Everton prepare to take on Newcastle at home this weekend. Everton [LLLDW] are now unbeaten in two Premier League games, though the fledgling unbeaten run comes after a three-game losing run from a leading position. While back-to-back victories could be too much to ask for considering the strength of the opposition, Dyche will be hoping his side can at least pick up a point against Newcastle. Luckily, Everton have lost just three of their last 20 Premier League home games against Newcastle [12W, 5D, 3L]. In addition, Everton have won six of their last eight Premier League matches at Goodison Park [6W, 0D, 2L]. Sean Dyche could keep the 4—2—3—1 with Dominic Calvert-Lewin in attack in place for this fixture against Newcastle. Nathan Patterson is in doubt for the weekend, while as many as three, including Seamus Coleman, are ruled out until after the international break.

Newcastle United earned a hard-fought point in a 1-1 draw against Manchester City last weekend, one that followed a shocking 3-1 loss to Fulham. They will be coming off the back of a 1-0 third-round win over AFC Wimbledon in the EFL Cup, having dominated with 79% of the ball. Despite five shots on target, Fabian Schär [P. 45’+1] scored the only goal of the game from the penalty spot. Picking up consecutive victories across all competitions will be the objective for Saturday’s trip to Everton, a side they have defeated in five of their last eight Premier League meetings against [5W, 1D, 2L], just as many as in their previous 24 against them [5W, 6D, 13L]. Victory here could see Newcastle climb into the top five should other intertwined fixtures end up with favourable outcomes. With both goals coming from the penalty spot in the last two games, the Magpies, who are 7th, could find the back of the net from the penalty spot in three successive games. A 4—3—3 with Harvey Barnes, Isak [toe injury], who is in doubt, and Anthony Gordon could grace Eddie Howe’s attacking line-up against Everton.