Huddersfield have only spent one week in the bottom three all season but if they do not develop more bite soon they could drop back into it at just the wrong time.
The game on Saturday was always a massive six-pointer, but how will the Terriers get over such a defeat?
They have now failed to find the back of the net in five of their last six games as they once again paid the price for a cautious approach in a game that required more attacking intent.
The Terriers finished without a single shot on target as familiar faults were exposed. Their solitary striker, Laurent Depoitre, showed plenty of endeavour but his task was a thankless one as he often found himself isolated in the Newcastle half.
In fact, Huddersfield have not scored with any of their last 52 shots in the Premier League since Steve Mounie's goal against West Bromwich Albion in February, having played 394 minutes in the division since then.
David Wagner's side have never played a system that relies on creating lots of chances but it is worrying for the visitors that the fast-paced counter-attacking football and high-pressing game that helped them make the most of their few opportunities is now rarely on show.
Only the poor form of those sides below Huddersfield is providing the Terriers with some breathing space but upcoming home games against Watford and Everton are looking increasingly crucial to determining whether they will avoid an immediate return to the Championship.
HUDDERSFIELD - 31 Pts
April 7 – Brighton (A)
April 14 – Watford (H)
April 21 – Chelsea (A)
April 28 – Everton (H)
May 5 – Manchester City (A)
May 13 - Arsenal (H)