It might not have been the most thrilling game you’ll ever see but at this stage of the season all that matters is the three points and that’s exactly what Newcastle got by beating a spirited Wigan Athletic side 2-1 at St James’ Park.
The win kept the Magpies one point above Brighton at the top of the table but perhaps more significantly, 10 points ahead of third-placed Huddersfield Town as the Terriers lost at home to Burton Albion.
Dwight Gayle (who else!?) put Newcastle ahead in the 36th minute after good work by Mohamed Diame but Wigan were level five minutes after half-time thanks to Michael Jacobs.
Their lead lasted just seven minutes though after Matt Ritchie’s effort hit the post before the Scot headed in the rebound.
Here are my Newcastle player ratings from the game:
