Toon still grappling with

THE Premier League remains an adventure for Brighton but for Newcastle it is fast becoming an ordeal.

The two clubs won promotion together last May but there the comparisons end.

Brighton enjoy mixing it with the elite and battling against the odds. Survival would be an achievement.

It is different for Newcastle, unsure of the future on and off the pitch. Staying up is a necessity, whoever is

NEWCASTLE

in the year.

While Brighton are living the dream, the Magpies are still dreaming of a Mike Ashley-free future in which the manager is not shackled by dreary under-investment.

This was the backdrop to an even game which neither side deserved to win or lose. It reflected boardroom this the character and the work ethic of each but also the inadequacies that will inevitably lead to a fight for survival until May.

But while Brighton play with a smile on their faces, Newcastle wear a collective scowl.

A point gained for the visitors, an opportunity lost for the Magpies, who halted a five-game losing run at St James’ Park but have now taken just a point from home fixtures against Bournemouth, Watford and Brighton. They head to Stoke today dreading defeat.

The Seagulls, in contrast, prepare to face Bournemouth talking of possibilities.

“We were happy with our performance, just disappointed we could not take three points,” said Shane Duffy, outstanding at the back. “But it’s a decent return and if we beat Bournemouth, that’s a good return.”

Goalkeeper Ryan pulled Mathew off two