Newcastle’s nervy win away at Bristol City may not have been the most glamorous of results, though it could well prove to be perhaps the most poignant.
Under the cosh for swathes of the game, the travelling Magpies ground out a result on unfamiliar turf for the first time since December 2015.
In many ways, it’s exactly what they needed.
The burgeoning stages of this Championship campaign have proved few games will be easy for the Toon Army, who tend to crumble when the pressure is on.
Defending valiantly against a home side bringing the game to the visitors, the likes of Jamaal Lascelles and Chancel Mbemba will take confidence in shutting the Robins out.
So, could this be a turning point?
There’s little doubt that Rafa Benitez is a masterful organiser of teams, though he has been working with players entirely bereft of confidence.
The Spaniard could drill defensive shape for as long as he was, but the mental fragility that has proved such a sewing motif in their opening three fixtures renders it largely useless.
Granted, a 0-1 win away at Ashton Gate may not seem like much on paper. Still, the manner in which the North East giants held on when the pressure was palpable is a huge psychological boost.
With confidence creeping back into the rearguard, glittering talent further up the field could reap the rewards.
Just imagine what a strong base could do for the likes of Jonjo Shelvey, Ayoze Perez and Matt Ritchie.
Even to simply not concede in the 45th minute, where they have largely proved to be at their most vulnerable, must have been a monumental feeling for the players.
It’s a building process, and this is the first block.
Do you agree? Can this serve as a turning point? Let us know below…
