Newcastle manager Chris Hughton heaped praise on the club's players and fans after a regulation 2-0 win over condemned Plymouth saw them crowned Coca-Cola Championship champions on Monday.
The Magpies were already assured promotion but goals from striker Andy Carroll and winger Wayne Routledge ensured they would return to the top flight with silverware. For Argyle the result confirmed their relegation to League One, with the rival fans left to ponder wildly differing prospects next term.
Hughton, whose side are now unbeaten in 15 matches - a run that includes seven wins in a row, said: "I think we got to a stage where we couldn't shout from the rooftops but we were comfortable that we were going to go up. We got to that stage and probably for a little while it's been about winning the title and I couldn't be any prouder of this group of players."
He added: "They have gone from day one and we have probably had one blip during the season, they came back from that strongly and went on a very good run. We have been the team to beat all season.
"We have a magnificent support that have made every stadium that we have gone to a big occasion, including tonight (Monday)."
A travelling support of 2,431 made the 820-mile round trip to cheer their team to the title at Home Park.
The closest Plymouth came to scoring was when Alan Judge lashed an audacious 30 yard shot off the bar during the second half.
For Argyle coach Paul Mariner the task is to follow Hughton's lead and lead his side to promotion at the first attempt.
Reflecting on the club's position, Mariner added: "We also have a fantastic fan base and we owe it to them to do our best to bounce back up to this division - and that's what we will be aiming to do."
Source: PA
