Steve Bruce has revealed what he told his players at half-time at Southampton - just moments after Matt Ritchie had missed a penalty.
The Magpies wasted a host of opportunities before finally breaking the deadlock with just 11 minutes remaining.
Bruce admits that Newcastle's goals for column is not good enough with just 25 scored so far (one of the lowest in the Premier League) but opened up on what he said during the interval at St Mary's.
Bruce said: "It was to be patient and keep moving the ball quickly.
"And of course wait for the opportunity.
"We all know we haven't scored a load or created a load so when a team gives us possession it's difficult to play against as we're not used to it."
United are now eight points clear of the drop-zone in the Premier League and face Sheffield United at St James' Park on Saturday afternoon in what will be a tough encounter against the Europa League candidates.
When asked if Newcastle are almost safe, Bruce said: "We still have to be careful.
"But it puts us in a very healthy position on 35 points with nine games to play.
"I think we'll accept that."
