Terriers reaction: Big decisions went against Huddersfield Town, believes Wagner

Newcastle have beaten second-placed Brighton and next nearest rivals Huddersfield in back-to-back games and Benitez said: “Yes, it’s good but that’s all.

“We now have to play Reading and there are still a lot of points to play for. We just get ready for the next game.”

Newcastle’s first two goals were controversial with Jonjo Shelvey looking to have handled the ball before Nahki Wells was harshly adjudged to have brought down Matt Ritchie for a penalty which he converted himself in the 10th minute.

Daryl Murphy made it 2-0 when he collected Shelvey’s long ball but appeared to kick it out of goalkeeper Danny Ward’s grasp to slot home in the 32nd minute.

Aaron Mooy pulled one back from the penalty spot in the 72nd minute before Newcastle substitute Dwight Gayle, back after injury, sealed the win in stoppage time.

“I was really pleased with everyone,” said Benitez. “Huddersfield have some good players and we knew what to expect from this game.

“It does not matter whether you have a game plan if you don’t have the players. The players gave everything.

“We have a group of players who really try. We made some mistakes but it’s important we try to do our best.

“Huddersfield are a good team, move the ball well and they will keep pushing.”

Huddersfield head coach David Wagner said the big decisions went against his side.

“I’m not sure about the first penalty,” Wagner said. “I think there was a handball before it and for the second goal Danny Ward touched the ball and had it under control and he got attacked.

“Ward then got a knock and we had to take him off at half-time. So many situations went against us.

“We are disappointed with the result but we tried everything today. I told the players I have no complaints and I am very proud.

“They went into Newcastle’s face and we have to be honest, they are a top team and difficult to break.

“We showed great fighting attitude and that’s all I can ask. There’s a reason Newcastle are top of the league and will get promoted.”

Huddersfield lost their seven-match unbeaten run but Wagner said the defeat would not leave its mark.

“We can leave this result behind us very quickly,” he added. “There are some very smart and intelligent players in the dressing room and they know we were very unlucky.

“We performed and played very well against the best team in the division and too many details went against us.”