Wor Flags helped spark an incredible atmosphere and Callum Wilson handed the Magpies the lead inside the opening two minutes.
However, old habits emerged for Steve Bruce’s side as Tanguy Ndombele, Harry Kane and Heung-min Son put Spurs 3-1 in front.
A late Eric Dier own goal made it 3-2 but United slipped to their fifth defeat of the campaign, leaving them 19th in the Premier League table.
Our writer Jordan Cronin was at St James’s Park – and here’s how he rated each player:
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5. Matt Ritchie - 5
Ritchie was good for the odd cross in the box but was found out defensively - losing the ball for Son’s goal. That said, left-back isn’t his favoured position. Photo: Naomi Baker
6. Sean Longstaff - 5
Longstaff had been much improved before the game but his levels dipped against Spurs. Lost his midfield battle. Replaced on 60 minutes. Photo: Catherine Ivill
7. Isaac Hayden - 5
Tackled well but ultimately played a part in a midfield that was non-existent and overran. Photo: Stu Forster
8. Joe Willock - 5
Is he fully fit? Played in the middle but often found himself on the left-hand side. Cut open too easily in midfield. No runs into the box. Photo: Catherine Ivill