Goals from Yohan Cabaye and Papiss Cisse have given Newcastle United the advantage heading into the break against Stoke City this afternoon.
Having dominated the early proceedings, the Magpies broke the deadlock in the 14th minute. Hatem Ben Arfa's cross was headed against the bar by Cisse, but Cabaye was on hand to turn in the rebound.
Their lead was doubled four minutes later when Cabaye played a reverse pass for Cisse, who beat the offside trap before slotting the ball beyond the reach of Asmir Begovic.
Cisse and Ben Arfa had further chances to extend Newcastle's lead, but the home side were forced to settle for a two-goal half-time lead.
