LONDON, Feb 3: Michael Owen scored Newcastle United’s first goal since the return of Kevin Keegan as manager on Sunday but they could still only draw 1-1 at home with north-east rivals Middlesbrough.

The England striker rose high to head Newcastle in front just before the hour mark of a lively contest at St James’ Park but Boro got a deserved equaliser with less than five minutes to go through Robert Huth’s looping header.

Middlesbrough would have taken all three points if their finishing had matched some neat approach play. Gary O’Neil wasted two good chances in the second half while Stewart Downing’s stoppage-time free kick struck the post.

Newcastle stay 12th with 28 points while Boro move up a place to 13th with 26 points.

Second from bottom Fulham were hosting Aston Villa later on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Arsenal swapped places with champions Manchester United at the top of the Premier League on Saturday after their 3-1 win at Manchester City preceded United’s fortunate 1-1 draw at Tottenham Hotspur.

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