Callum Wilson netted a second-half penalty to guide Newcastle United to a narrow 1-0 victory over Brentford at St. James Park.
After the two sides played out an underwhelming first half, Newcastle managed to break the deadlock in the 64th minute.
Moments after having an effort ruled out, Wilson converted his spot-kick after Mark Flekken was penalised for a rash challenge on Anthony Gordon.
Newcastle ultimately held firm to claim their second win of the season, bringing an end to a poor run of three consecutive defeats.
The win moves the Magpies up to 11th place and level on points with Brentford, who finish the day in 10th position.
After breaking the deadlock in the seventh minute of their previous outing against Bournemouth, the Bees threatened to make another quick start when Aaron Hickey went close with an early strike which was saved by Newcastle number one Nick Pope.
That early exchange suggested an exciting first period was in store, however, both sides failed to live up to those expectations as the contest quickly descended into a cagey affair.
With chances proving to be a rare occurrence, Newcastle’s only meaningful opportunity of the opening 45 arrived just before the half-hour mark.
Kieran Trippier’s corner was flicked on by the towering Sven Botman to Bruno Guimaraes at the back post, but the Brazilian was denied his first goal of the season by a sprawling Flekken.
While the Dutch goalkeeper ensured his side went into the break on level terms, he experienced a disastrous start to the second period.
Flekken was perhaps fortunate to see Callum Wilson’s effort ruled out in the 57th minute after the referee ruled the shot-stopper had been fouled after failing to deal with a high ball.
However, the Netherlands international made a costly error just minutes later when he tripped Gordon in the box, gifting Newcastle the chance to take the lead.
Wilson shouldered the responsibility from the subsequent spot-kick, drilling the ball into the top corner to register his third goal of the campaign.
Newcastle looked set to have another opportunity to score from 12 yards when referee Craig Pawson ruled that Bryan Mbuemo had handled the ball, however, the initial decision was overturned on review.
Despite being afforded a lifeline, the visitors were unable to find a late leveller, ensuring Newcastle could celebrate a crucial win, and their first clean sheet of the season.
The Magpies will now turn their attention to Tuesday’s trip to the San Siro for a mouthwatering Champions League clash with AC Milan.
As for the Bees, they will look to bounce back from their first defeat of the season when they welcome Everton to the Brentford Community Stadium next Saturday.
