NEWPORT County AFC manager Michael Flynn paid tribute to his team for a superb performance in difficult conditions as they claimed a “huge win” over champions Lincoln City.

Scot Bennett scored the only goal in the seventh minute on a blustery afternoon at Rodney Parade to claim a vital three points against the League Two title winners.

The win means County stay 11th in the table – two points behind seventh-placed Exeter City with a game in hand.

And they know that victory at home to Oldham Athletic on Tuesday night will move them above the Grecians and into the last play-off spot ahead of their final-day trip to Morecambe next Saturday.

“It wasn’t the most attractive game of football I’ve ever seen in my life,” admitted Flynn after the final whistle.

“It was difficult conditions, which didn’t help, but I thought my boys were absolutely fantastic.

“They stood up to everything that Lincoln threw at them, and I’ve got to give credit to Lincoln.

“They are the champions but they still put in the effort and commitment. It just goes to show why they are champions – because they keep going to the end.

“But that’s a huge win for us.

“It was a fantastic finish from Scot,” added the Exiles boss.

“He had a bit of stick before the game. We were telling him he was due a goal and he popped up with one. I’m delighted for him. He was excellent today, as was everybody else.”

Looking ahead to Tuesday’s match, Flynn knows the equation is simple if they are to keep their fate in their own hands.

“We’ve got to win on Tuesday night and then we’re in the top seven, it’s as simple as that,” he said.

“Fingers crossed we can do it, but it’s a different game and it’s going to be tough.”

Read more: Match report from Rodney Parade