Spot-on Ameobi takes Newcastle past Metalist

A second-half penalty from Shola Ameobi and some goalkeeping heroics from Tim Krul were enough to send Newcastle United FC through to the UEFA Europa League round of 16 at the expense of FC Metalist Kharkiv.

The only goal of the tie came in the 64th minute when Moussa Sissoko was brought down by Metalist custodian Olexandr Goryainov and Ameobi fired the ball high into the net. Both teams had chances but the goalkeepers were outstanding, particularly Krul who thwarted Jonathan Cristaldo on several occasions as Metalist put Newcastle under heavy pressure towards the end.

Metalist were unchanged from their first-leg lineup but Newcastle rang the changes, Danny Simpson, Vurnon Anita, Sylvain Marveaux and Ameobi returning while Massadio Haïdara was handed a first-team debut.

It was Metalist's Cleiton Xavier who had the first shooting opportunity yet his long-range free-kick flew over. Sissoko and Ameobi then threatened although Alan Pardew's side were unable to make their early superiority count.

As Metalist started to show their hand in attack, Cristian Villagra crossed for Argentinian compatriot Cristaldo, whose header bounced wide. Back came the Magpies, only for Papiss Cissé's shot to be blocked by Goryainov.

The goal the tie needed came after the hour mark. Sissoko took advantage of defensive confusion between Goryainov and Papa Gueye and drew a foul from the keeper. Ameobi duly dispatched a high and handsome spot kick to give Newcastle the lead.

When Metalist substitute Willian found himself with just Krul to beat soon after, the goalkeeper parried. The Dutch international again rescued Newcastle when he superbly denied Cristaldo twice within seconds.

Jajá had an attempt cleared off the line and Krul saved from Willian again as Metalist turned the screw, but Newcastle defended with determination to secure their progress and earn a tie with FC Anji Makhachkala.