Newcastle shut out but still go through

NEWCASTLE completed their convoluted journey into the UEFA Cup proper despite being shut out by Latvian minnows Ventspils.

On another night, the Magpies might have run up a cricket score but a combination of the woodwork, poor finishing and keeper Andris Vanins kept them at bay.

After starting their season in the Intertoto Cup on July 15, Newcastle — who paraded new £10 million (e14.8 million) signing Obafemi Martins on the pitch before kick-off — have achieved their first aim for the season.