Newcastle vs. West Ham: Final score 0-1, Nolan returns to haunt Magpies

West Ham notched an impressive away win at St. James' Park thanks to a first half Kevin Nolan goal. Newcastle United would have been looking at this match as an opportunity to claim all three points, but they ran into Sam Allardyce's side while they were on absolutely top form and paid the price.

Nolan scored in the 39th minute when he deflected Joey O'Brien's shot in at the far post -- the captain was onside despite the Magpies vociferous protests -- and although the hosts moved heaven and earth in an attempt to find an equaliser, Jussi Jaaskelainen was able to bat aside everything they threw at him, making fine saves from both Yohan Cabaye and Demba Ba.

The Hammers were also perhaps a little fortunate -- Shane Ferguson had a fine chance to draw Newcastle level just before the break but saw his effort hit George McCartney in the back and carom to safety, a vital block that the defender knew nothing about. But West Ham had their chances as well, with Nolan spurning a few opportunities and Tim Krul denying Andy Carroll when the on-loan striker was clean through on goal.