DELIGHTED Sir Bobby Robson last night hailed his Newcastle United heroes after their thrilling 1-0 win over Italian giants Juventus.

The Magpies now go into their final two Champions' League group fixtures - against Dynamo Kiev and Feyenoord - knowing two victories will secure progress to the second stage.

And Robson believes it is the biggest win he has enjoyed in charge at St James' Park.

He said: "This is a huge one. Juventus won the Italian League last year and they have not been beaten so far this season. This is a big result for us and they are a big scalp.

"It will also do us the power of good, they are a tough nut to crack because they are also the favourites to go through.

"Juventus would have qualified if they had won here tonight. So they came here hoping to win and make sure they could go into their last two matches relaxed.

"But we showed a lot of tenacity. And we could have won by more after they survived a difficult period.

"Nobby Solano had a shot saved and Shearer had a shot saved by Buffon. But at 1-0 there was always a chance they could get back in and we have enjoyed a bit of luck.

"They've hit the bar and they were looking dangerous."

Impressive Andy Griffin's cross that was turned in by Juventus 'keeper Gianlugi Buffon in the second half was enough to secure Newcastle their first Champions' League points of the campaign. And the goal was the first scored by Robson's men in 322 minutes of Champions League football.

But this was also a great night for the Newcastle defence, with £5m Titus Bramble, who had not started a game since the defeat by Leeds in September, shining at the heart of the defence alongside Andy O'Brien.

And Robson, whose side take on Kiev at home next Tuesday, said: "Everybody did very well. Bramble grew up tonight.

"He had a couple of little errors early on but he is only 21. And at 21 he has great distribution with his passing.

"For his age I don't think there is anybody in the Premiership who is better than Bramble for his distribution - with either foot.

"O'Brien also did well against Del Piero. In fact we kept Del Piero and Nedved quiet all night.

"Andy Griffin also showed great grit and application. We deserved this win for our performances in Europe this season."

Juventus boss Marcello Lippi revealed he always knew his side were going to find it hard coming to the North-East.

The Juve coach said: "Though they had no points before last night, that is not really a fair reflection on them because they have had nothing to show for being a very good team. But if we win our next game we are through."

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