Dwight Gayle netted in a first-half dominated by Steve Bruce’s men, but two penalties from Troy Deeney – both coming after sloppy second half fouls from the Magpies – handed the home side victory.
So who emerged with any credit from a disappointing defeat? Scroll down and click through the pages as Miles Starforth dishes out his ratings from Vicarage Road:
5. Danny Rose
Steady performance, had a verbal exchange with Lascelles late in the first half. 6 Photo: Pool
6. Fabian Schar
Again fielded in midfield by Bruce, didn’t cover enough ground. 5 Photo: Shaun Botterill
7. Jonjo Shelvey
Nowhere near his best, had to get around the pitch, but didn't play too many telling balls. 6 Photo: OLI SCARFF
8. Allan Saint-Maximin
Returned after being rested by Bruce, delivered a great early cross and was a threat whenever he had the ball. 7 Photo: MICHAEL REGAN