Loic Remy scored both goals as Newcastle United recorded a 2-1 victory away at Cardiff City this afternoon.
The French international, who is on loan from Queens Park Rangers, beat David Marshall with two low efforts within the opening 45 minutes.
Peter Odemwingie reduced the arrears during the second half, but it was not enough to spur Cardiff on to scoring an equaliser.
Match statistics:
Cardiff:
Shots 8
On target 2
Possession 57%
Corners 3
Fouls 11
Newcastle:
Shots 20
On target 10
Possession 43%
Corners 3
Fouls 8
Was the result fair?
Their performance in the second half will have left many connected with Cardiff believing that they deserved a point for their efforts. However, Newcastle did well throughout the entire 90 minutes and for that reason alone they were worthy victors.
Cardiff's performance
Bluebirds boss Malky Mackay is bound to be wondering why on earth his side started this contest so badly. During the first half they were poor in possession and some of their defending left plenty to be desired. The half-time introduction of Jordan Mutch changed things, though, and with a bit more luck they may have claimed a share of the spoils. It's a lesson for Cardiff that they cannot afford to be off the pace in any Premier League match.
Newcastle's performance
Alan Pardew has every right to be one happy manager this evening. He saw his side tear their hosts apart during the first 45 minutes and but for Marshall, they would scored even more. Then, during the second half, they showed great resistance and were solid at the back - not something that can often be said about a Newcastle rearguard.
Sports Mole's man of the match
David Marshall: Without the Scot in inspired form today, Cardiff would have lost this game by a much greater margin. He produced a whole host of saves in both halves and also showed plenty of bravery. If he can play like that every week, it will give Cardiff a real chance of staying in the Premier League.
Biggest gaffe
From Newcastle's point of view, there was much to admire about Remy's first goal, but Cardiff's defending was woeful. They backed off the French striker, which allowed him the time and space to shoot and he duly punished the poor judgement.
Referee performance
A quiet afternoon for Kevin Friend, but then these two sides are hardly physical so it was to be expected. To his credit, he allowed the action to flow and kept his cards in his pocket for much of the contest.
What next?
Cardiff: After the international break Cardiff will make the trip to London to take on Jose Mourinho's Chelsea.
Newcastle: On the same Saturday it is back to home comforts for Newcastle when they will play host to Liverpool.
