Stevenage's first-half performance forced a change of formation from Newcastle at the break, as they brought on Nile Ranger for LeonBest and switched to a 4-2-3-1 set-up.
However Hughton was given money to spend on players during the January transfer window, bringing in defenders Mike Williamson and Danny Simpson, winger Wayne Routledge and striker LeonBest - all for undisclosed fees.
LeonBest passed into Ameobi's feet on the edge of the area and he turned away from his marker before firing a low shot which Lewis got a hand to but could not keep out.