NEWPORT County AFC earned a point with a 1-1 draw at home to Luton Town last night as a Sean Rigg free-kick cancelled out an early penalty for Hatters striker Danny Hylton before Exiles defender Mark O'Brien was sent off late on. Here's what we learned...

South Wales Argus:

1. More self-inflicted wounds

Yet again County conceded a penalty, yet again they went down to 10 men and yet again they gave themselves a mountain to climb.

Sid Nelson (above) dived in recklessly to concede the spot-kick after only five minutes – the 17th awarded against the Exiles this season – and there could have been another in first-half stoppage time.

And Mark O’Brien could have no complaints with his two yellow cards after the break. County will find it hard to win the points they need if they continue to shoot themselves in the foot.

South Wales Argus:

2. Justice for Joss

The County fans screamed for a penalty when Joss Labadie (above) hit the deck with 10 minutes left on the clock and for a split second it looked as if the referee was about to point to the spot.

But Charles Breakspear instead booked the Exiles skipper for simulation. Michael Flynn backed the referee’s judgement and it did look as if Labadie was playing for the penalty.

After so many similar decisions going for opposition teams against County this season it was frustrating but probably the right call.

3. Solid start to life under Flynn

Two wins, a defeat and a draw means County have taken seven points from a possible 12 since Michael Flynn replaced Graham Westley.

That’s a pretty good return and another 14 points from the final eight games would add up to a final tally of 47 and mean there would be a real chance of beating the drop.

It’s a big ask but, as Flynn keeps saying, it’s not impossible and his side will keep on fighting.

4. Lennie lending a hand already

Lennie Lawrence was only confirmed in his new role as first team management consultant on Tuesday afternoon but his influence was already being felt last night.

Flynn revealed afterwards that the former Cardiff City manager talked to the players at half-time and after the match and his vast experience can only help in the club’s current position.

With Lawrence helping out Flynn and his assistant Wayne Hatswell, offering advice and guidance when needed, the Exiles have given themselves the best possible chance of survival.

South Wales Argus:

5. Bet big on Rigg

What a pleasure it is to see Sean Rigg (above) back to his best after a frustrating few months for the former Bristol Rovers and AFC Wimbledon man.

Rigg missed eight weeks due to injury and he showed what County have been missing with a superb display last night.

His stunning goal was just the tip of the iceberg – Rigg’s quality shone through in a frantic match and he and Alex Samuel are going to be the key men going forward if Flynn’s boys are to pull of the Great Escape.