Newcastle United consolidated sixth spot in the Premier League following a 1-0 victory over Norwich City on Sunday.
The home side so nearly took the lead after just two minutes when Papiss Cisse found himself unmarked in the area, but he could not chip his effort over the head of Norwich goalkeeper John Ruddy.
The Magpies again came close after ten minutes after good work from Cisse, but his striking partner Demba Ba could not find a finish inside a crowded penalty area.
Newcastle did take the lead after 12 minutes, however, when Cisse turned a Jonas Gutierrez cross into the net at close range.
Norwich so nearly found their way back into the match after 19 minutes, but Jonny Howson's effort was high and wide when he might have done better.
The away side began to gain control of the ball in the latter stages of the half, but Ruddy again came under pressure late on, as he smartly denied Ba and Cisse to keep the score at 1-0.
Norwich started the second half in much better form, however, and only a fine save from Tim Krul after 54 minutes denied Zak Whitbread bringing the scores level.
The away side continued to dominate proceedings in the second period, but they just could not find that elusive strike.
Yohan Cabaye stung the palms of Ruddy after 72 minutes, before Ba fluffed the chance to send the Magpies 2-0 ahead moments later.
Chances were few and far between in the latter stages of the match, with the home side always comfortable resisting the Norwich attack.
The victory is crucial in terms of Newcastle's European hopes, while Norwich sit comfortably in 13th position.
Matt Law
