Newcastle United forced their way into the top half of the Premier League table on Sunday with a surprise 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane.
The only goal of the game came on 12 minutes when Loic Remy rounded Brad Friedel before slotting the ball into an empty net.
Spurs had plenty of chances to get themselves back into the match, but Newcastle goalkeeper Tim Krul put in an inspired performance to help the Magpies claim the points.
Here, Sports Mole takes a closer look at the action between the two sides in North London.
Match statistics:
Spurs:
Shots 31
On target 14
Possession 65%
Corners 11
Fouls 5
Newcastle:
Shots 8
On target 4
Possession 35%
Corners 4
Fouls 15
Was the result fair?
A share of the points would have been the most reasonable outcome, but it is hard to fault Newcastle for their dogged display. However, Spurs would have almost certainly come away with something had it not been for the goalkeeping heroics of Krul.
Spurs's performance
The home side were often flat throughout the 90 minutes at White Hart Lane, but any time that they did breach the Newcastle defence they were unable to get past Krul. Their passing was slow and, while there was a real lack of invention and inspiration in the final third, despite the wealth of talent on show. Roberto Soldado in particular cut a solitary figure up front. The Spurs fans voiced their discontent at the end of the match with a chorus of boos, and it was hard to blame them.
Newcastle's performance
It was not always pretty, but the Magpies did everything that they needed to do in order to claim a surprise win. They landed an early sucker punch thanks to Remy's goal, but credit must go to them for refusing to defend that lead. They continued to surge forward in numbers, with Remy, Yoan Gouffran and Yohan Cabaye all threatening. They rode their luck at times in defence, though there was also a lot to be impressed by in terms of their determination and commitment.
Sports Mole's man of the match
Tim Krul: There was only one man who stood out and that was the Newcastle goalkeeper. Quite simply, this was one of the best performances you are likely to see all season between the sticks as the Dutchman made save after save to deny Spurs.
Biggest gaffe
Moussa Dembele did his side no favours in the build-up to Newcastle's goal by going on an aimless run in his own half. He was eventually caught in possession before Remy found the net.
Referee performance
Chris Foy allowed the game to flow at a quick pace thanks to a number of sensible decisions.
What next?
Spurs: Spurs continue their Premier League campaign next Sunday when they make the trip to Manchester City.
Newcastle: The Magpies return to Premier League action on Saturday when they entertain Norwich City.
Jack Prescott
