Barton sparks Magpies into two-goal lead at break

Newcastle 2 West Brom 0

Joey Barton marked his first Newcastle start since being released from jail with his first goal at St James’ Park.

The 26-year-old struck from the penalty spot with nine minutes gone after Shola Ameobi had gone over under a challenge by Ryan Donk.

Obafemi Martins made it 2-0 with 43rd-minute header, but Magpies goalkeeper Shay Given had earlier had to make a fine one-on-one save to keep out James Morrison’s effort.