Newcastle clinch title with win

NEWCASTLE’S successful march back to the Premier League was capped at Plymouth last night as they secured the Coca-Cola Championship title with their 29th win of the season, sending their hosts down to League One in the process.

Having already had their promotion back to the big time confirmed a fortnight ago, Chris Hughton’s men made sure it will be them and not West Brom that lifts the trophy – their first since winning the old Second Division under Kevin Keegan in 1993.

The result also ends Plymouth’s six-year stay in the second tier, with Sheffield Wednesday and Crystal Palace’s final day encounter meaning it is impossible for them to stay up even if they win their two fixtures.

Goals from Andy Carroll and Wayne Routledge were enough to see off Paul Mariner’s men, who have paid the price for winning just 11 games.

Carroll opening the scoring with 20 minutes on the clock, rising highest to connect with Joey Barton’s corner.

The goal sapped Plymouth of their enthusiasm and the visitors went two goals up eight minutes later.

Barton made it with a defence-splitting pass to Routledge, before the winger coolly rounded David Stockdale and slotted into an empty net.

PLYMOUTH: Stockdale, Eckersley, N’Gala, Reda Johnson, Bhasera (Bolasie 81), Duguid, Damien Johnson, Fletcher, Judge, Mackie, Wright-Phillips (Joe Mason 75).

NEWCASTLE: Harper, Simpson, Hall (Kadar 83), Williamson, Jose Enrique, Routledge, Guthrie, Nolan (Best 70), Smith, Barton, Carroll (Ameobi 70).

Referee: Craig Pawson (South Yorkshire).