Eddie Howe felt Newcastle United fell into the Champions League play-off round in “the best possible way” after a 1-1 draw at holders Paris Saint-Germain left both sides outside the top eight. The two teams had entered Wednesday’s final matchday of the league phase both in position for an automatic last-16 place. PSG led through Vitinha’s fine early strike, but a Joe Willock header on the stroke of half-time brought Newcastle level, and they could even have snatched victory after an entertaining encounter. “We went down that route in the best possible way with a great performance against the holders. “And of course, if that is given then you want consistency the other way.