Gateshead vs Sunderland predictions, betting tips and match previews for this pre-season friendly affair. Sunderland start pre-season on Saturday against Gateshead in a 5pm kickoff, following their match against South Shields earlier. Read on for our free predictions and betting tips.
Club Friendlies | Jul 13, 2024 at 5pm UK at 1st Cloud Arena
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Gateshead vs Sunderland Predictions
Can Sunderland Assert Their Dominance Against Gateshead in Pre-Season Clash?
Key Stats
– Sunderland averaged 1.1 goals per game in the Championship last season.
– Gateshead scored 88 goals in the National League.
– Sunderland achieved an average of 6.1 corners per game in the Championship.
Sunderland are set to commence their pre-season preparations with a double-header against South Shields and Gateshead. This encounter against Gateshead, scheduled for a 5pm kickoff, promises to offer a glimpse into how both teams are shaping up ahead of the new season. Gateshead, fresh from their FA Trophy triumph, will be eager to test themselves against a Championship side, while Sunderland aim to establish a solid foundation under new manager Régis Le Bris.
Gateshead’s Resilience and Ambitions
Gateshead experienced a rollercoaster 2023-24 season, marked by their exclusion from the playoffs despite securing the final spot due to stadium lease issues. This setback was followed by a triumphant FA Trophy final, where they emerged victorious in a penalty shootout against Solihull Moors after a 2-2 draw. This victory has undoubtedly boosted their morale, and they will look to carry this momentum into the new campaign.
Manager Rob Elliot has bolstered his squad with new signings, including goalkeeper Tiernan Brooks, defender Jamie Bramwell, and forward Owen Oseni. The departure of key players such as Ed Francis and Jordan Hunter presents a challenge, but Elliot’s strategy of integrating fresh talent could pay dividends. Gateshead began their pre-season with a commanding 7-1 win over Hebburn Town, highlighting their attacking prowess and readiness for tougher tests.
Sunderland’s New Dawn Under Régis Le Bris
Sunderland’s 2023-24 season was tumultuous, with managerial changes leading to a mid-table finish in the Championship. The appointment of Régis Le Bris, who previously managed French side Lorient, marks a new chapter for the Black Cats. Le Bris aims to replicate the success Sunderland achieved in the 2022-23 season, where they secured a top-six finish.
Le Bris has already made strategic additions to the squad, bringing in goalkeeper Simon Moore and midfielder Alan Browne on free transfers. The absence of injured players Jenson Seelt and Nazariy Rusyn is a concern, but the new manager will likely utilise a mix of first-team players and under-21s in this friendly to assess his options. This match against Gateshead, following an earlier game against South Shields, will be crucial for building team cohesion and fitness.
Expected Line-Ups and Tactical Insights
Gateshead: Brooks; Richardson, Grayson, Storey; Adom, Booty, Worman, Hannant; Allan, Olley; Rutledge
Gateshead’s expected lineup showcases a blend of experience and new signings. The defensive partnership of Grayson and Storey will be key, while the midfield, orchestrated by Booty and Worman, will look to control the tempo. Upfront, Rutledge’s ability to find the net will be vital against Sunderland’s defence.
Sunderland: Moore; Pembele, Alese, Triantis, Cirkin; Neil, Mateta; Roberts, Browne, Ba; Aouchiche
Sunderland’s lineup is likely to feature a mix of established players and new recruits. The defensive unit, led by Alese and Triantis, will be tasked with nullifying Gateshead’s attacks. In midfield, Browne’s creativity and Neil’s work rate will be crucial, while Aouchiche will aim to spearhead the attack.
Key Areas and Player Duels
The midfield battle will be crucial, with Gateshead’s Booty and Worman going head-to-head against Sunderland’s Neil and Browne. Controlling this area will allow either team to dictate play and create chances. Additionally, the duel between Sunderland’s Aouchiche and Gateshead’s Grayson will be a focal point, with both players known for their physicality and goal-scoring abilities.
Gameplay Dynamics
Sunderland are expected to dominate possession, leveraging their superior technical skills to control the game. Their high pressing strategy will aim to disrupt Gateshead’s build-up play and force errors. Conversely, Gateshead will likely adopt a counter-attacking approach, using their pace on the wings and the creativity of their midfield to exploit any gaps in Sunderland’s defence.
Tactical Strengths and Weaknesses
Sunderland: Sunderland’s strength lies in their ability to control possession and create opportunities through patient build-up play. The presence of creative players like Browne and Roberts provides them with the ability to break down defences. However, their defensive organisation, particularly against quick transitions, remains an area of concern.
Gateshead: Gateshead’s primary strength is their defensive resilience and ability to hit teams on the break. The midfield duo of Booty and Worman can dictate the game’s tempo, providing a solid platform for their forwards. Nonetheless, their reliance on counter-attacks can leave them vulnerable if Sunderland manage to press effectively and maintain possession.
Managerial Critique
Régis Le Bris, in his inaugural season with Sunderland, brings fresh ideas but faces significant pressure to deliver results. His tactical adaptability and ability to integrate new signings will be crucial. On the other hand, Rob Elliot has shown commendable resilience and tactical acumen at Gateshead, but his team’s exclusion from the playoffs highlights administrative challenges that could impact their morale and focus.
Expected Goals Analysis
Sunderland’s average of 1.1 goals per game in the Championship underscores their need for more clinical finishing. Gateshead, with an impressive 1.9 goals per game in the National League, demonstrate their offensive capabilities, though their defensive record of 1.4 goals conceded per game suggests vulnerabilities that Sunderland could exploit.
Predictions
Best Bet: Sunderland -2 to Win Given Sunderland’s superior squad quality and tactical setup, they are favourites to win by a considerable margin. Their ability to control possession and create numerous chances should see them securing a comfortable victory against a lower league opponent.
Correct Score: Gateshead 1-4 Sunderland While Gateshead are likely to find the net due to their offensive capabilities, Sunderland’s superior firepower and depth suggest a dominant performance. A 4-1 scoreline reflects Sunderland’s attacking prowess and Gateshead’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Goalscorer Prediction: Adil Aouchiche to Score Aouchiche, with his goal-scoring instincts and technical skills, is a prime candidate to find the net for Sunderland. His ability to create and convert chances makes him a constant threat.
First Half Result: Sunderland to Lead Sunderland’s stronger lineup and tactical approach should see them taking an early lead. Their pressing game and ability to create chances will likely result in a first-half advantage.
Innovative Market: Total Team Shots on Target – Sunderland Over 7.5 Sunderland’s attacking setup and the presence of creative players like Roberts and Browne indicate they will frequently test the Gateshead goalkeeper. Predicting over 7.5 shots on target for Sunderland reflects their offensive potential and game strategy.
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