By Craig Hope

IN the process of putting five goals past Cardiff City on Friday night, Newcastle United set a new club record of 15 league games without defeat.

It was back in 1950 that a run of 14 matches, which overlapped seasons, was achieved by a Magpie side littered with legendary names such as Jackie Milburn, Joe Harvey and George Robledo.

But United's current vintage, having equalled that feat at Leicester City last weekend, have now inked their names in the black-and-white history books.

A run which started with a 2-1 home success over Doncaster Rovers in October has taken in away wins at Sheffield United, Preston and Coventry, as well as seven home victories including the latest 5-1 mauling of The Bluebirds.

And, when asked about the achievement after that game, boss Chris Hughton deflected all praise onto his table toppers.

"This group of lads deserve all the credit that goes with it, but it is something we need to maintain," he said.

"The run stretches back to October and started after a difficult patch.

"Their response to that was tremendous and their attitude since has to be praised.

"But I personally think every game will get tougher now. We are going into that stage of the season where everybody is pushing for their own agendas.

"I think the games will be tougher and we have got to make sure we keep raising the bar."