Sylvain Marveaux's goal has given Newcastle United a half-time lead over Maritimo in tonight's Europa League match at St James' Park.

The Frenchman found the net midway through the opening 45 minutes to set Alan Pardew's side on their way into the last 32 of the competition.

Davide Santon had a good opportunity early on for the hosts, but his low effort forced the save from Romain Salin.

Newcastle eventually made the breakthrough with 23 minutes on the clock as Marveaux converted from a tight angle following Hatem Ben Arfa's pass.

However, a decent first half for the home side was hampered in the final few minutes as Ben Arfa was forced off with what looked like a hamstring injury.