Steve Bruce says that Newcastle United deserved to cling on to all three points against Everton - despite a nervous end to the clash at St James' Park.
The 2-1 win puts Newcastle into the top 10, but also keeps them TEN points away from the relegation zone.
Bruce, who beat Carlo Ancelotti once again in his career, said after the game "We knew it would be a battle against one of the great managers.
"He has had a few problems with injuries but I couldn't be more pleased. We deserved it."
Bruce was unhappy with the amount of stoppage time as Newcastle were left hanging on.
He said: "I don't know where we got six minutes from at the end. They threw everything at at us and the goal makes it edgy.
"We're trying to do things a different way and be more expansive but it is a work in progress. We have to do what is best for the team.
"They are comfortable at the moment."
When asked about Callum Wilson's penalty award with Everton feeling the decision was soft.
He said:"If I'm going to be honest, it seems like very little contact means a penalty these days. If it was against me I would be disappointed. But we can't keep complaining about it.
"It is what it is. It was our turn and we will take it."
Despite the ugly nature of the win, Bruce concluded: "When you play a good team tactically you have to be right.
"It wasn't much of a spectacle in the first half but once we got the goal.. all in all it is a good day's work for us."
