NEWPORT County AFC boss Michael Flynn could the same starting line-up for a fourth game on the spin – but striker Nicky Maynard is giving him food for thought.

The Exiles host title-chasing Cheltenham at Rodney Parade needing a point to keep their play-off destiny in their own hands.

They have earned that position thanks to wins against Crawley and Scunthorpe either side of a draw against rivals Exeter.

Flynn named the same side on all three occasions and it wouldn’t be a shock if the XI is unchanged when it is announced at 2pm.

However, Maynard looked sharp off the bench against the Iron when he struck the bar with a wonderful lob that bounced high off the hard ground.

The 34-year-old arrived on loan from Mansfield just before the January deadline and is starting to show why Flynn chased him.

“He is looking a lot sharper and is knocking on the door for the start,” said the manager, who has reaped the rewards of pairing the energetic Padraig Amond and Lewis Collins.

“Nicky could have seven or eight goals - he gets in some unbelievable positions. If he was 100 per cent match fit [when he arrived] then we might be looking at a different table, that’s how much quality he has.

“He is a fantastic finisher and let's hope he's hitting form at the right time.”

DECISIONS: Michael Flynn could name the same side for a fourth game

DECISIONS: Michael Flynn could name the same side for a fourth game

County will head to Southend with their fate in their own hands if they avoid defeat this afternoon regardless of what Forest Green Rovers and Exeter City do against Tranmere and Bolton.

A point could also leave Forest Green needing a near-impossible goal difference swing if they lose in Gloucestershire.

Flynn is aware of the scenarios but insists he won’t let it shape his in-game approach against a Robins side secure of promotion but hunting top spot.

“I wouldn't forgive myself if we were going for a point and we conceded in the last minute and another team scored in the last minute,” said the manager.

“You can't think like that, it's ludicrous and it's gambling. I don't like to gamble, I don't mind a flutter on the horses now and then but that's as far as it goes.

“Let's do what we can and I am sure the boys will give 100 per cent. Hopefully it's enough, if not then we will go onto Southend.”

Today's fixtures: Barrow v Southend, Bolton v Exeter, Bradford v Scunthorpe, Colchester v Salford, Forest Green v Tranmere, Grimsby v Port Vale, Leyton Orient v Carlisle, Mansfield v Oldham, Newport v Cheltenham, Stevenage v Crawley, Walsall v Morecambe.