Newcastle keep their title dreams alive

move to within a single point of Chris Hughton’s side.

However, Benítez will spend time with his family today instead of tuning in to the game that could, once and for all, settle their title aspirations.

“I am really pleased because the players have worked so well the whole season, especially away from home,” said Benítez. “To move so close to Brighton is a credit to the players having won promotion on Monday.

“We have done our job. It was great for the fans too because it was a long, long trip. We are delighted and we will go home happy. I won’t watch the Brighton game because I cannot change anything.”

Newcastle took the lead in the 55th minute when Atsu was tripped on the edge of the box by Sean Morrison. The winger picked himself up and duly beat Allan McGregor with a wonderful free-kick from 20 yards.

Hayden then made the game safe for the visitors when he beat McGregor from all of 25 yards in the 64th minute.

Cardiff manager Neil Warnock was far from happy with his front players and the performance of referee Graham Scott. He said: “It was a disappointing end at home for us, but if you don’t score your chances you don’t win.” He added: “The free-kick for the first goal is a nothing free-kick. We’ve got to start educating players what to do when you get a referee like that.”