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Hammers manager Sam Allardyce is targeting back-to-back Premier League victories for the first time since March 2011 following his side’s 2-0 opening day victory over Cardiff City on Saturday.

Goals from Joe Cole and Kevin Nolan helped the Hammers to get off the best possible start this season in front of a buoyant Boleyn Ground crowd.

And now Allardyce is hoping his players can head to St. James’ Park on Saturday prepared to come away with all three points against Newcastle United.

He told whufc.com: “We went to Swansea City last year in the second game and a Ginge back pass cost us and we lost 3-0.

“In the end we deserved it and the lads have got to be determined not to do it again.

“Newcastle are going to be a difficult as they don’t have the injuries they they had when we beat them there last season. I know having worked there when they get it right it is very hard to get a result.”

And Allardyce also stressed that good home form will be an important factor if the Hammers are to reach their 50-point target this season.

“We only lost four games at home last year and that is why we looked so good and entertained the public,” Allardyce continued.

“It was some achievement that we’ve got to try and at least match this year but with the atmosphere of the crowd and the quality of the players I think we’ll shine through.

“We’ve started to show that we’ve improved the squad and hopefully we’ll continue to grow. We’re aiming for 50 points, four more than last year, and that would brilliant for us.”