By Craig Hope

CHRIS Hughton admits that Magpie match-winner Kevin Nolan is "on fire" in front of goal after his latest effort secured a 1-0 victory at Preston on Monday night.

The 27-year-old swivelled inside the area before directing a low strike into the far corner on 74 minutes to steal maximum points for the Geordies and send them back to the top of the Championship.

And, afterwards, boss Hughton paid tribute to his nine-goal top marksman.

"We always knew Kevin could score goals when we took him last season," Chris told nufcTV.

"We're seeing now just how good he is in front of goal and he's on fire at the moment.

"If a chance falls to one person then you probably want it to be Kevin.

"It was a lovely finish; cool and calm.

"He's a top professional and a real football person who just loves to play.

"He's a great influence around the place and is on top of his game for us right now."

Nolan dedicated the winner to his best friend Carl, who lost his father a year ago last Wednesday.

"It was a very emotional goal for me," said the midfielder.

"A lot of the celebration was for a good friend of mine, who's gone through a tough year.

"It was the anniversary of his father's death on Wednesday, and I promised I would score for him. I wanted to do that. He's been my best mate since we were in nappies and it's been a really tough year for him."