... Newcastle's hopes at Selhurst Park, but the Tynesiders were still able to snatch victory, leaving Alan Pardew admitting his relief, and praising captain Fabricio Coloccini's cool head in defence.
"We made it more difficult for ourselves with the sending-off," said Pardew.
"I thought his tackle was very close to a red, because he just pulled out at the last second.
"Then he did a silly hand gesture and ref sent him off for that.
"We were getting tired but the desire and character in the group was tremendous.
"That was typified by our captain who was by far and away our best player on the pitch."