Eddie Howe reflects on "massive" win and "horrible" period after 3-1 win over Brighton

Newcastle United finally returned to winning ways as they beat Brighton and Hove Albion 3-1 at St James' Park on Saturday.

It was a game that few had expected Newcastle to win. We went into the game saying we'd have been happy with a draw.

Newcastle were 2-0 up within half an hour. It was a very strange feeling at the time, as it's been so long since we had a two-goal lead. We've taken one-goal leads plenty of times and then thrown them away.

In fairness, Nick Pope tried his best to throw this lead away too, but we managed to weather the Brighton storm in the second half after they'd pulled a goal back, and we even managed to add a third in stoppage time.

Eddie Howe felt relieved after getting the win

Eddie Howe needed that win more than any of us just to ease the pressure he's been under, so it was no surprise to see him call it a 'massive win' when talking to NUFC TV.

"A big relief for me, for the players, for everybody. It's been a long time coming.

"We've missed that feeling of winning, so delighted to get it back today. It wasn't a perfect performance, but it was a really strong performance against a very good opponent. That's a massive win."

Speaking to the BBC Sport, Howe also praised the crowd, discussed our painful wait for a win after five straight defeats, the players' attitude and his own personal relief at ending our recent slump. 

"The crowd were really good with us today, I am delighted for them. They've witnessed everything in the last few weeks and have stayed with us and stayed loyal to the team. I thank them greatly.

"It's been a horrible feeling for us for a number of weeks. We have been looking to change our fortunes. The attitude of the lads during this difficult run has been outstanding. We stayed together, trained well, and we got our reward today.

"It's always nice to win for and with them [the club hierarchy]. They have always been really supportive. It was great they were here to see the lads give so much. We are together as a united football club.

"The feelings and emotions of trying to put it right, trying to find solutions and answers, get through to the players and connect with them in a different way - in difficult moments I try to focus on what's going to put it right, rather than anger and blame. I take the responsibility myself.

"It's been hard for my family because they see the intimate side of me behind closed doors. I haven't been a bundle of joy the past few weeks, so I am pleased for them as well."

Eddie Howe had to get it right on Saturday

It was a very bold team selection by Howe, especially with Yasir Al-Rumayyan watching on from the stands; it felt like it was a game where everything had to be right.

We've been told by several outlets this week that Howe received the backing of the board at the meetings at Matfen Hall, but we still felt like that could easily have turned had Newcastle not managed to pick up any more points this season.

That win has restored a bit of belief that we could still qualify for Europe. You may not get that impression if you look at social media, but the players seem to believe it at least, and that's what counts.