After another unconvincing performance against Southampton on Saturday, Newcastle have Martin Dubravka to thank for one more point on the table.
The goalkeeper was instrumental in the 0-0 draw, as his saves prevented the Saints from snatching all three points.
Although Southampton looked in similarly poor form to the Toon, there was no doubt they looked more likely to score.
They peppered the goal with 26 shots over the course of the game and were far more creative in the final third.
Newcastle, meanwhile, failed to register a shot on a target this weekend and the future continues to look worrying.
MORE NEWCASTLE STORIES
But for all their woes in attack, the man between the sticks is proving a reliable and outstanding shot-stopper.
Dubravka made many vital saves against the Saints, most notably a point-blank header from Jack Stephens.
He also showed great concentration when standing his ground in a one-on-one with Mohamed Elyounoussi in the opening three minutes.
His form is so good currently that it is possible Newcastle can achieve survival just through his performances.
What Dubravka is achieving for Newcastle
Newcastle did not deserve a result against Southampton but saw themselves move one place up the table on Saturday to 19th.
Thanks to Dubravka and his defence, Newcastle currently have far and away the best goal-difference out of the bottom four teams.
If the relegation battle comes down to such fine margins this season, they could well escape the drop.
It is actually impressive a team with seven losses in ten games and only six goals has just a -8 goal difference.
When you compare it to the -17 goal-differences of Fulham and Huddersfield, it is clear Newcastle are getting something right.
Dubravka clearly inspires his defence and is becoming a real leader for the team.
Early in the Southampton match it had been the ‘keeper doing all the work but, after his fine saves, it gave the team so much more confidence.
This was epitomised by a moment in the second half when Paul Dummett and Mo Diame flung themselves at strikes by Nathan Redmond and Cedric in quick succession.
The ‘keeper’s determination has clearly spread through the team.
If Newcastle can nick a few goals against lesser sides, fans can have confidence in Dubravka to ensure the win.
