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…
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. 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

5. Matt Targett - 7
Had an injury scare just before half-time but battled on to put in another composed display. Photo: Stu Forster

6. Jonjo Shelvey - 6
A quiet display based on his recent showings. Was still able to pick out a few good passes during the game. Photo: OLI SCARFF

7. Joe Willock - 6
Not quite at the same levels of his past two performances. Got into some decent areas but unable to pose much of a threat. Photo: Stu Forster

8. Joelinton - 7
Broke the play up well at times but Brighton dealt with his presence quite well. Booked. Photo: Ian MacNicol