Pardew: We can extend Europa run

Metalist Kharkiv 0Newcastle United 1(Newcastle win 1-0 on agg)

Dut despite losing midfielder Cheick Tiote to illness an hour before kick-off, they turned in a fine away performance to win 1-0, only their second success on the road in all competitions to date this season, and progress to the last 16.

Now Pardew, who has laboured through much of the campaign to date with a depleted squad, is hoping the return of key men from injury and the addition of his five January signings can allow them to not only climb away from the relegation zone, but also extend their European adventure.

Pardew said: “It’s an important result. We lost Cheick before the game, but Vurnon (Anita) did an excellent job coming in late. With (Hatem) Ben Arfa coming back and Cheick to add to that side, I really feel as though we can give this competition a good go.”

Newcastle won the tie with 26 minutes left when striker Shola Ameobi scored from the spot, despite having to wait several minutes in icy temperatures as Sissoko, who was fouled by keeper Olexandr Goryainov to win the penalty, underwent treatment.

But Newcastle still needed excellent saves by keeper Tim Krul, who left the stadium on crutches after a challenge by striker Jonathan Cristaldo, to deny substitute Willian and Cristaldo.

l Last night’s match was marred by violence both before and after the game. One Newcastle fan was taken to hospital for stitches after being attacked with Magpies fans claiming they were ambushed as they arrived at the metro station at the Metalist Stadium. There were further problems inside the stadium after the final whistle.

METALIST KHARKIV: Goryainov, Villagra, Gueye, Torsiglieri, Fininho, Torres (Willian 66), Edmar (Blanco 82), Marlos (Jakson 67), Cleiton Xavier, Sosa, Cristaldo.

NEWCASTLE: Krul, Simpson, Yanga-Mbiwa, Coloccini, Haidara, Sissoko, Anita (Perch 76), Cabaye (Bigirimana 87), Marveaux, Shola Ameobi, Cisse (Gutierrez 75).

Ref: S Gumienny (Belgium).