Newcastle oicked up a 1-0 win and three big points against Aston Villa.
There was an early stoppage when Fabian Schar picked up a head injury following an accidental clash with Kieran Trippier, but the Swiss defender was OK to continiue.
The Magpies were pressed well, although chances to few and far between. Joe Willock fired over and then Chris Wood flicked a header wide after good work from Ryan Fraser.
But Newcastle got the goal their play deserved when Willock burst forward and was fouled by Callum Chambers. VAR replays showed it was just outside the box, but Kieran Trippier rocketed the free-kick home to give United the lead.
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Wood could have done better with a long-range effort following more good work from Willock, while Javier Manquillo received treatment after an awkward fall. Paul Dummett replaced the Spaniard just before the break.
Newcastle had a second injury blow early in the second half with Trippier had to be replaced by Emil Krafth.
The visitors stepped up their pressing and thought they had equalised through Ollie Watkins, only for VAR to rule he was offside.
Here's how Lee Ryder rated the United players.
Martin Dubravka 8
Kept his cool to record clean shot. Faced 11 shots overall.
Kieran Trippier 8
Was razor sharp again until being undone by nagging calf injury. Superb free-kick and excellent organisation of back four again.
Fabian Schar 8
Played through the pain barrier after head wound. Made some vital interceptions.
Dan Burn 9
Dream debut for the Geordie boy as he put his body on the line. Some vital moments and won the battles on set-plays.
Javier Manquillo 7
Some good attacking runs before injury struck.
Jonjo Shelvey 7
Battled hard on a day in which United had just 37% possession.
Joe Willock 8
Worked his socks off and this was arguably his best game of the season. Won the free-kick that led to the goal and put in five important tackles with offensive and defensive qualities on show.
Joelinton 8
His defensive grit - rather than offensive contributions - is helping Newcastle stay up. Six big tackles.
Ryan Fraser 7
Made Newcastle tick going forward. Put in eight crosses. Decent display in front of watching Scotland boss Steve Clarke,
Allan Saint-Maximin 8
No goals or assists but was always a big threat. Had Villa on the backfoot and drew plenty of fouls.
Chris Wood 7
Was eager to take the penalty kick before it was chalked off. Won an incredible 13 aerial balls
Subs
Paul Dummett (for Manquillo 45) 7
Stepped into the battle and had a steady influence.
Emil Krafth 7 (for Trippier 47 mins)
Another who made an important contribution after being thrown into the battle.
Bruno Guimaraes (for Willock 90)
Subs must play 15 minutes to gain a mark.
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