Newcastle 2 Norwich 1: Alan Pardew hails ‘big, big win’ for Magpies
Newcastle 2 Norwich 1: Alan Pardew hails a "big, big win" for the Magpies after admitting his side weren't at their best
A relieved Alan Pardew hailed a “big, big win” after the Magpies produced an unconvincing performance against struggling Norwich City at St James’ Park.
France international Loic Remy, who is on a season-long loan from Queens Park Rangers, notched his eighth goal in 10 Premier League games with a second-minute strike.
The Magpies doubled their lead thanks to another Frenchman, Yoan Gouffran, after the striker latched onto Shola Ameobi’s knock-down and fired past Canaries goalkeeper John Ruddy.
However, Newcastle, who were 1-0 winners at Tottenham Hotspur a fortnight ago, had to endure a nervous end to the clash after Leroy Fer scored what proved to be a 80th-minute consolation.
“I thought we looked a little tired in the second half. Norwich had a good second half but I felt we were in control of the game,” Pardew told BBC Sport.
“That is a third win on the trot and a big, big win. This was as important as beating Chelsea and Spurs.
“We are looking really solid and have good influence off the bench. We are in good shape. We deserved to win. I don’t think we were brilliant but the most important thing was the three points.”
