Benitez: Win a small step for Toon-kind

RAFA BENITEZ got all tongue-tied after Newcastle’s gritty win over fellow strugglers Huddersfield.

Asked to describe just how important a result which takes the Magpies six points clear of the relegation zone, the Spaniard said: “In English, no, I can’t!”

But Benitez was under no illusions what Newcastle’s fourth league win of the season means.

“To get three points here and keep them far away, we have taken a step forward but it is just one small step,” he said.

“There are still so many games to come, starting against Fulham at home next week so we have to keep our focus. But this win was quite important because we were playing a team that is close to us. We felt the pressure and I am sure that they felt it too.”

Benitez had some sympathy for David Wagner whose Huddersfield side spent most of the game encamped in Toon territory.

He added: “I am sure they will be disappointed because they kept on pushing us.

“But we had the same situation against Brighton earlier this season when we had 27 shots and still lost.

“They are a good side who will keep on working hard right until the end of the season.”