Half time sees stalemate in relegation derby

Newcastle 1 Middlesbrough 1

Geordie boy Steven Taylor handed Newcastle a relegation lifeline after Middlesbrough took the lead at St James’ Park.

The central defender headed home Danny Guthrie’s ninth-minute corner after Habib Beye’s own goal had given the visitors the perfect start.

Former Boro striker Mark Viduka hit a post and Brad Jones had to pull off a fine save to deny Michael Owen, while Steve Harper blocked a Marvin Emnes effort with his legs and the Dutchman fired the rebound wide.