SAM Allardyce believes that this weekend's clash with in-form Portsmouth could be their toughest test yet at St.James' Park.

The Magpies have looked unbeatable at Gallowgate this term, five wins from six games seeing them record their best start to a home campaign for more than 12 years.

Harry Redknapp's men travel to Tyneside in a rich vein of form away from Fratton Park, the South Coast side having won their last three on the bounce on the road.

And, with the Premier League's top scorer in the form of seven-goal Benjani among their number, Big Sam accepts that Saturday's game against Pompey could represent their most difficult task so far this term

"This will probably be our toughest game at St.James' because they have completely turned their away form around," the Toon boss told Newcastle World TV.

"They did not travel very well but have now won three in a row.

"They've got excellent power and size as well as pace and skill which they use very well.

"They soak up the pressure and play on the break and can hurt teams.

"We've got to make sure that when we do attack we don't over extend ourselves and allow them to exploit those gaps because they are very good at it.

"But we've been excellent at home and we must make our quality count."

Have you got your tickets for Saturday's game against Portsmouth yet? We need YOU to keep up the defence of Fortress St. James' as the Magpies try to build on their best Premier League home start since 1995/96.

Tickets can be bought from the NUFC Box Office and official Club stores - or online simply by clicking on the link below ...