Manager Graham Coughlan was delighted with his side’s professionalism after Newport County booked their place in the Second Round of the Emirates FA Cup.
The magic of the cup returned for the Exiles as Shane McLoughlin netted a brace against the National League side, sealing passage into the next round of the world’s oldest domestic cup competition.
“We got the job done," began Coughlan.
“We know how important the FA Cup is, the history behind it and the tradition of this football club. Not to mention the financial side of things, so we got the job done and I think it was best described as a good solid professional performance.
“Some people may feel it should have been more comprehensive, some won’t. We still need to be more clinical in the final third and we have these conversations every week that we need to be more ruthless in front of goal.
“I thought Nick pulled off some really important saves for us today. They tested us and applied themselves really well. It was a tough, tough afternoon. Ultimately, we’re really pleased to get through it because they are a really good team and have a really good manager.”
McLoughlin opened the scoring midway through the first half, netting his first-ever FA Cup goal, and the Newport boss was full of praise for his wingback's performance.
“They were two great strikes from him,” he added.
“He's been brilliant for us, he can play in multiple positions, and he’s probably one of the only players that did show some composure in front of goal for us today.
“For the second goal, I think it was the only time we put a little bit of passage of play together, kept a cool head and created some good opportunities.
“I’m delighted to be through to the next round and let’s see where it takes us.”