Fabian Schar scored twice as Newcastle ended a run of four consecutive Premier League defeats with a tenacious victory at Aston Villa.
Switzerland defender Schar finished well from close range for both goals as Villa stuttered to their first home league defeat of the season.
An own goal from Alex Moreno gave Newcastle a three-goal cushion before Ollie Watkins pulled a goal back.
Watkins had the ball in the net for a second time but was flagged offside.
Villa were left to rue the chance to make up ground on Premier League leaders Liverpool and remain in fourth spot - five points behind the Reds having played a game more.