Newcastle 1-0 Crystal Palace

It's a real pleasure to be able to write this after a vital 3 points which lifts the club out of the relegation zone; let's take a look at the 6 talking points I feel are worth looking at from today's game.

Lascelles: The catalyst for change?

Following the somewhat embarrassing defeat at Southampton, Jamaal Lascelles was outspoken and very honest in his assessment of the clubs horrific form, and on that day, he promised that the players would fight, and he hasn't let us down. The club has seen a solid turnaround which means now that 3 points at Villa next weekend would be a huge step towards securing survival. Lascelles has been a huge part of that, and the partnership in which he and Lascelles are developing is one that I wouldn't change going into next season, regardless of what league we are in. He's already become a fan favourite and long may these performances continue.

Jack Colback: What does he bring?

When Jack Colback first signed for the club from Sunderland, he string together some impressive performances, and despite the clubs position, he scored some good goals and overall, had a good season. This season, the same can't be said and today for me, Colback seemed a wasted body on the pitch, and I feel Jonjo Shelvey and Tiote would be a much better partnership in the middle. It may simply be that in a season where good performances have been few and far between, that Colback is yet to find any form.

Karl Darlow: Proving himself

Karl Darlow received a fair bit of stick when he was thrown in away at West Bromwich Albion when Rob Elliot was deemed not well enough to play, and perhaps it could have been harsh, given it was his debut and the side were playing such poor football. Today, even before the penalty, Darlow had made some very good saves and the save from Cabaye tipped off what was a great performance.

It certainly remains to be seen what is next for Darlow and Newcastle United with Krul likely to be fit for next season, and young Freddie Woodman also coming through. Today's performance will only boost his chances of having a role to play next season.

A clean start for Mr. Anita

Vurnon Anita has been at Newcastle for quite some time now, but has failed to make a significant impact in that time, however the injury to Daryl Janmaat has seen the Dutchman playing as a make shift full back, and he has been fantastic in that position, not only today but we cannot forget the important goal he scored against Man City. A fresh start under Rafa Benitez is certainly what Anita needed, and he has definitely taken his chance.

Townsend does it again

What a goal this afternoon from Andros Townsend! It was definitely one of those that you know it's in as soon as the ball is hit, and the winger continues his impressive start to life on Tyneside. There is no doubt that Townsend could be criticised for being a greedy player, and perhaps not releasing the ball when necessary but if the winger can continue to score goals then I'm sure we can allow for that. Is EURO 2016 a possibility for Townsend?

Benitez the brave!

Many would have looked at Rafa Benitez taking the job at Newcastle as absolutely crazy, with it seeming inevitable that it would mean he had a Premier League relegation on his CV. It was most definitely a brave move. But was it a clever move? Well, Benitez clearly saw potential at the club, and if he can keep us up, there's no doubt there is a much brighter future ahead at Newcastle.