MICHAEL Flynn found it hard to describe his emotions after watching his Newport County AFC side complete the Great Escape in the most dramatic circumstances possible.

The overjoyed caretaker manager hailed the never-say-die spirit of his side as they saved themselves from relegation with a last-gasp winner against Notts County.

With 90 seconds of the season left to play the Exiles looked doomed to return to the Conference for the first time since 2013.

Hartlepool’s extraordinary fightback to beat promoted Doncaster Rovers meant they were on course to pip Flynn’s men on goal difference.

But defender Mark O’Brien made himself a County hero for ever more as he lashed in the winner to spark wild celebrations at Rodney Parade.

“I’m absolutely ecstatic,” said caretaker boss Flynn, who is set to land the permanent role next week.

“I’m so happy for these fans, for myself, the players – they’ve been immense – for my family, my kids and my wife Victoria, who has supported me and picked me up when I’m down.

“And the board of directors deserve a massive amount of credit for taking some tough decisions, backing me and putting their faith in me.

“Everything they do is for the good of the club. They get some unfair criticism at times but they’ve been absolutely first class in everything they’ve done.”

Mickey Demetriou had put the Exiles ahead from the penalty spot on 32 minutes and Pools trailed against Doncaster.

But Jorge Grant poked in to level for the Magpies on 62 minutes and set up a tense final 30 minutes for the capacity crowd.

And, just as it looked like it was all over, O’Brien’s heroics sealed survival and heralded a massive party all over Newport.

“It’s huge,” added Flynn, who inherited a side 11 points from safety when he replaced Graham Westley in March.

“Everybody thought we were dead and buried.

“It was tense, it was scary, it was nerve-racking but we’re Newport County. We might not be the most polished club in the world but one thing we’ll always do is fight.”

Notts County boss Kevin Nolan said: “I am disappointed that we have not spoilt the party.

“I’m delighted for Flynny and Newport, but it is not how I wanted to end the season.

“I have been a part of a few escapes in the past, I have seen stuff like it. I am delighted for them and we will see them next season.”