Walsall vs Newport County Predictions

• Both teams have scored in six of Newport’s last seven fixtures, the exception being their 3-0 thrashing at Rochdale two weeks ago.
• Rochdale are the only visiting side to keep a clean sheet at Walsall in League Two this season; they’ve netted 16 times in their other 10 home league games.
• Newport earned a 2-1 win over Walsall back in September, managing 21 attempts at goal that day.

Inconsistent sides meet in the Black Country

Walsall and Newport County had both been in inconsistent form before a string of Covid outbreaks left both sides sat on the sidelines for much of the festive period. Walsall have won just two of their last seven games, while Newport have won three of their last eight, despite sitting in the playoff places.

Avoiding the win markets could be a prudent move for what is likely to be an unpredictable affair; Newport’s away record is finely balanced, having won four, drawn four, and lost four of their twelve road trips, while Walsall have managed four wins, four draws, and three losses at home.

The goals markets could be the best source of value on Saturday; Newport’s record of 29 goals conceded is the worst amongst teams in the top half of League Two, but only Leyton Orient and Forest Green Rovers can better their 35 goals scored. Walsall, meanwhile, have netted in all but one of their 11 home matches this season, with a 0-0 draw with Rochdale the only exception.

Back both teams to net on New Year’s Day

With both teams having scored in six of Newport County’s last seven games, the only outlier being a 3-0 hammering at Rochdale, backing both teams to score in this clash seems a strong play.

Walsall have only won one of their last five home games in all competitions, meanwhile, making a repeat of Newport’s early-season 2-1 victory over the Saddlers seem a decent correct score bet.