Where has this Newcastle been? Matthias Jaissle’s side put on a clinical and disciplined display at Crystal Palace to relieve pressure on his job.

A cagey first half with defences on top was followed by an 11-minute Magpies masterclass after the break.

Newcastle sliced through Palace as William Osula roamed free of Chris Richards to poke Jacob Murphy’s cross in from close range before Harvey Barnes capped off a slick passing move with a neat finish inside the box.

Defensive improvement

Newcastle had only kept one clean sheet heading into the meeting against the league's worst defence. 

Yet this victory was spearheaded by a strong defensive platform. Fabian Schar and Dan Burn marshalled the Palace frontline exceptionally. 

Schar managed 13 defensive contributions, nine clearances and was not dribbled past once - Burn could not be beaten either. 

There were scruffy occasions, particularly in the first half when Palace had a few scrambles in the box. 

However, the backline stood firm, put their bodies on the line and got pressure on the ball. 

The midfield pair in front of them were pivotal, too. Nico Gonzalez and Joelinton grafted defensively. 

After conceding eight goals in their last two away matches, Jaissle focused on being resolute defensively and that was apparent in the unity Newcastle showed. 

Every player knew their role in a dogged showing and that will encourage Jaissle, who has his doubters at St James' Park. 

Clinical Magpies

Newcastle did not have many chances, amassing less than one expected goal, but they lethally punished Palace's mistakes to climb to seventh in the table. 

Osula's goal came from nowhere after the break. Newcastle had created very little in the first half but Jaissle's team talk seemingly sparked them into life, as they moved the ball quicker and with purpose in attack. 

It was a simple goal, a neat cross in and some clever movement. A perfect response to their dull first half where they did not manage a shot on target. 

Adam Wharton was sloppy in possession and gave the ball away on the edge of his own penalty area. Newcastle quickly shifted the ball to the right, crossed low into the box before laying off to Barnes for their second.