WATFORD ................................................................0
a free-kick on the left-hand side.
Ki thundered the ball towards goal and sub Perez connected with a header that flew past Foster to raise the roof in the Gallowgate End.
It was a moment you could feel the relief with Perez appearing to gesture at his critics as he strode towards the corner to celebrate his first goal since May.
Watford were not finished and it took a recovery tackle from Kenedy to deny Andre Gray in front of goal after Success put in a low cross.
The Hornets continued to throw everything at United and Holebas’ cross was headed away by Fernandez with 10 minutes to go.
Newcastle defended for their lives in the final stages as Watford put up a fight with goalkeeper Foster even ending the game in the Toon penalty area.
There was even time for a mini brawl after a foul on Yedlin as Mariappa and Schar went toe to toe on the touchline.
But Newcastle held on to deliver a massive win and finally give their fans a night to celebrate.
Worked his socks off with some crucial interventions and ended the game with most touches (63) for the Magpies.
Showed no effects of any of the criticism that came his way during the week. Booted one away from danger from close range as Mariappa got forward.
Won a host of aerial balls during Watford’s late bombardment.
Used all his experience to help see out the win. Seven vital clearances.
Put in six crosses after a disappointing first half. This game will be remembered for his defensive work after some important interceptions and blocks.
Almost netted a fine goal in the first half. Newcastle pass master with 35.
Pretty flat to be honest. Lost the ball early after lack of focus. Went off injured on disappointing afternoon.
Started the game with the right attitude as he looked to create openings. But his decisive nick from Andre Gray was a crucial. Just edged man of the match in strong field.
Won a couple of free-kicks and looked lively until he was forced off through injury.
Wasn’t expecting to play 90 minutes and ran through the pain barrier to help deliver first win. One header flashed just wide in second half. (for Muto 45) He’s suffered criticism in recent times but deserves credit after scoring the winning goal and putting in a hard shift which included clearances and blocks towards the end.
(for Lascelles 46) Superb stuff from the Swiss international with three important clearances in the second half. Looked composed and tidy.
(for Shelvey 50 mins) His best performance yet for Newcastle. Said his assist was actually a shot but it helped deliver first win in 174 days.
Craig Pawson 49,157