Something is stirring inside St James' Park. Make no mistake about it. This was not a pretty victory but, crucially, Newcastle United found a way to win against Aston Villa.
It was a gritty performance, typified by debutant Dan Burn, who was rightly named man of the match after a flawless display at the back in the 1-0 win. However, every player, to a man, dug in as the supporters carried Eddie Howe's side over the line once more.
It was another new arrival, Kieran Trippier, who settled this contest with another trademark free-kick in the 35th minute before the England international later hobbled off with a foot injury.
