Early goals from Ryan Fraser and Fabian Schar saw The Magpies go 2-0 up inside the opening quarter-hour.
Brighton pulled a goal back in the second half as Lewis Dunk turned the ball in from a corner to reduce the deficit but Newcastle were able to hang on.
Our writer Dominic Scurr has dished out his player ratings from the the match…
A message from the Football Clubs Editor
Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Newcastle United coverage 365 days a year.
This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription; sign up here.
Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor
. NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - MARCH 05: Ryan Fraser (obscured) celebrates with teammates Joe Willock and Joelinton of Newcastle United after scoring their team's first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion at St. James Park on March 05, 2022 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Ryan Fraser (obscured) celebrates with teammates Joe Willock and Joelinton of Newcastle United after scoring their team's first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion at St. James Park on March 05, 2022 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images) Photo: Ian MacNicol
. Martin Dubravka - 6
Made a smart save to deny Danny Welbeck in the first half. Should have done better for Dunk's goal but made a good stop at his near post to deny Trossard in the closing stages. Photo: Shaun Botterill
. Emil Krafth - 7
Worked hard and got forward well. One of his better displays. Photo: Stu Forster
1. Martin Dubravka - 6
Made a smart save to deny Danny Welbeck in the first half. Should have done better for Dunk's goal but made a good stop at his near post to deny Trossard in the closing stages. Photo: Shaun Botterill
2. Emil Krafth - 7
Worked hard and got forward well. One of his better displays. Photo: Stu Forster
3. Fabian Schar - 8
A fine header put Newcastle 2-0 ahead early on. Solid at the back. Photo: Stu Forster
4. Dan Burn - 8
Made several important blocks and tackles during the match to help contain Brighton's pressure. Photo: George Wood