49’
Joao Pedro scored a late header to earn Watford a vital point against Newcastle United as it finished 1-1 at St James' Park.
Newcastle enjoyed the better of the first half and went close when Joelinton struck the crossbar, before debutant Chris Wood and Fabian Schar both missed headed opportunities.
The home side went in front on 49 minutes when Allan Saint-Maximin won possession off Jeremy Ngakia and beat two defenders before finishing past Ben Foster at the near post.
But Watford responded well and missed two great chances. Joshua King was denied by Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, while Moussa Sissoko blazed a great chance wide.
The visitors' endeavour was ultimately rewarded with two minutes remaining when Joao Pedro rose highest to head home from Kiko Femenia's cross.
Watford stay 17th with 14 points, two more than 19th-placed Newcastle.
See: Newcastle report | Watford report
Next fixtures
Newcastle: 22 Jan v Leeds (A)
Watford: 18 Jan v Burnley (A)
Match officials
Referee: Paul Tierney. Assistants: Constantine Hatzidakis, Neil Davies. Fourth official: Dean Whitestone. VAR: Kevin Friend. Assistant VAR: Simon Beck.
WHO'S GOING TO BE YOUR
MAN OF THE MATCH?
Vote at Full-time