Well, that was an important victory, wasn’t it?

It’s far from over yet, though, as we’re only out of the drop zone on goal difference, and our destiny once again lies in our own hands. However, with only two games of the season left to play, if results go our way at the weekend, we could be safe…

Although it’s a big ask. Expecting the team to simply turn up and beat Fulham might not work. There’s a chance that Fulham might not have read the script; they are somewhat on form, and asking a team which has managed only 7 victories in 36 games to suddenly come out with back-to-back wins might be a big ask.

On the other hand, if confidence was an issue, that win against Boro ought to have eased that one. It’s one of those times where I’d be happy if my earlier doom and gloom predictions were wrong.

But there’s the matter of Fulham this weekend. That is now a crucial game (much like the Middlesbrough one was), which could take us a great step towards safety. Having seen the run-ins (Sunderland have Pompey away and Chelsea at home; Hull have Bolton away and Man Utd at home), 37 points might well be enough.

Can Newcastle achieve it? Maybe, maybe not, but I’m daring to dream again…

(Oh, and by the way, lovely finish from Lovenkrands for our third)