Sean McAuley paid tribute to his Sheffield Wednesday players as they claimed a 2-2 draw at home to Championship leaders Newcastle. "They're a difficult nut to crack and I think we did really well," he said.

"Nobody expected us to get anything out of the game so that took a bit of pressure off.

"The players deserve all the credit. We were really pleased with the way they approached the game.

"They played with no fear and I thought their reaction in the second half was spot on because we needed to stay disciplined.

"Maybe if we can get a strong foothold in games coming up, the creativity will follow."

Newcastle boss Chris Hughton was far from satisfied with his side's display.

"It was most definitely a foul for their equaliser, but it wasn't one of our better performances," said Hughton.

"We have no given right to win any game and we faced a spirited Sheffield Wednesday side.

"We didn't start the game well and gave away a poor goal.

"I think it's disappointing, whenever you lead in a game, if you don't go on and finish the job off."