MANAGER John Sheridan and hat-trick hero Oliver McBurnie are convinced that Newport County AFC can continue to climb the table after crushing Luton Town.

County remain 21st in League Two but victory over the Hatters saw them move seven points clear of the relegation zone.

And, after Saturday’s FA Cup second round trip to Barnet, Exiles boss Sheridan and new striker McBurnie will be setting their sights on the Bees, Hartlepool United and Stevenage immediately above them.

“It was a very pleasing performance and it keeps the run going and I think there is confidence in the group now,” said Sheridan.

“I’m very pleased for the players; they’re getting used to me and they’re giving me the performances I want.

“If you give me a seven or eight of 10 every week then there’s a good chance you’re going to win games.

“We’re playing well as a team as well. We’re not relying on individuals.

“It’s all about getting results and to win 3-0, keep a clean sheet and to get your first home win for a long time is full credit to the players.”

McBurnie was impressed by his teammates and says he’s joined a team on the up.

“The boys are all in great spirits and feeling confident now,” said the 19-year-old.

“We look like a good team and the aim is to get as high as possible. If we keep getting results like this then I don’t see why we can’t climb the table.”

McBurnie is determined to make it at Swansea and he’s delighted to get the chance to show what he can do with County.

“I signed for three years in the summer and obviously the ultimate aim is to play for the Swansea first team,” he said.

“Whatever can help me get there I’ll do. Coming out on loan and playing nitty-gritty football is part of that and I’m more than happy to do that.

“I only really knew about it on Thursday morning and then it was a race to get it done before the deadline at 5pm.

“As soon as I knew Newport wanted to take me on loan I was buzzing to come down and get some games and some goals.

“I had a couple of appearances off the bench at Bradford and scored a few goals on loan at Chester and really enjoyed it,” he added.

“I’ve had a good start to the under-21 season as well and hopefully I can score a few goals here and help the boys out.

“It’s like a different sport at times compared to the under-21s but it’s good to test yourself against big defenders and challenge yourself.”