Newcastle United have moved a step closer to Premier League safety thanks to a 1-1 draw with West Bromwich Albion.
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The Magpies broke the deadlock early on at The Hawthorns as Papiss Cisse lofted the ball towards Yoan Gouffran, who took advantage of Ben Foster being out of position to head home.
Alan Pardew's continued to threaten following Gouffran's goal but wasted numerous chances, with Cisse particularly guilty of poor finishing.
Cisse's weak header was too easy for Foster but when the Senegalese was gifted an opportunity by Goran Popov's misplaced pass he looked certain to score until he chipped the ball over the crossbar.
West Brom's players were furious just before the break when the referee awarded a free kick after Billy Jones had been fouled by James Perch inside the penalty area.
The hosts looked a different side following the interval and they were unlucky not to be level when Romelu Lukaku met Chris Brunt's corner with a header that struck the crossbar.
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Despite being left disappointed when he was denied a penalty, Jones made an impact once again as he equalised for the Baggies with a low shot following good work by Lukaku on the edge of the box.
West Brom were full of confidence following the goal from Jones and they were close to taking the lead as James Morrison struck the ball towards goal to force Rob Elliot to make a great save.
Despite plenty of pressure from West Brom, the visitors were able to hold on for an important point.
Callum Mulvihill
