Newcastle's Papiss Cisse, from Senegal, left, chips the ball over Benfica's goalkeeper Artur Moraes, from Brazil, but fails to score during their Europa League quarterfinals, first leg, soccer match Thursday, April 4 2013 (Photo: AP)
The Magpies held a considerable advantage in possession in the first half but failed to break through resolute Fulham resistance. The west London side came into the game in the second half but it was host Newcastle that snatched victory late through Cisse, who slotted home a pass from Yohan Cabaye in the third minute of added time.
Fulham, which came into the game with two consecutive league wins, remains 10th in the standings on 39 points, virtually assuring the Cottagers of survival.
After enduring faltering league form for much of the season, including three defeats in its previous four games, Newcastle bounced back to move up to 13th in the table with 36 points, five clear of the relegation places.
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