Rafa Benitez pleased with Newcastle's 'massive' win over Crystal Palace
Sunday 1 May 2016 10:00, UK
Rafa Benitez says Newcastle will take plenty of positives from a "massive" win over Crystal Palace on Saturday.
Andros Townsend's free-kick proved to be the only goal of a tense encounter at St James' Park as the hosts made it four games unbeaten, boosting their hopes of Premier League survival.
But Townsend was not the only hero for Newcastle as goalkeeper Karl Darlow saved Yohan Cabaye's second-half penalty to preserve the three points.
"It's massive for us because we needed to win and we did it," Benitez said.
"There were a lot of positives, from the way we won with the fans behind us, with the great goal from Townsend and the save of Darlow, and the team spirit and connection with the supporters.
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"The fans appreciate the players are working so hard. The main thing for us is if we can approach the game against Aston Villa with focus and concentration, then we can win.
"I am sure the game against Tottenham [on the final day of the season] will be massive and fantastic for everyone here."
Palace enjoyed the better of a cagey first half but Newcastle improved after the break before going ahead on 58 minutes.
Benitez's half-time team talk seemed to make the difference in their last game as they battled back from a two-goal deficit to secure a 2-2 draw at Anfield.
And when asked what he said to his players this week, Benitez replied: "We had to play the ball a little bit better because they understood that just running and fighting could be very difficult.
"We had to keep the ball and pass in a better way and we did it."
The Newcastle manager also revealed he took a chance on the fitness of Vurnon Anita at right back, with Townsend on hand to double up against the threat of Palace winger Yannick Bolasie.
"It was very important because Anita was a little bit tired with stiff legs but we needed to take the risk and he did really well for the team," Benitez added.
"These are the things maybe people don't notice but it was a massive effort and one we really appreciate."
On Darlow's penalty stop, Benitez said: "If it's the penalty that keeps us up it will be amazing for him and he will be the hero, for sure."
