BLACKPOOL boss Steve McMahon (pictured) has delivered an early FA Cup warning by telling Newport County: "We've got plenty left in our tanks."

But the former Liverpool and England star has also praised Tim Harris and his men ahead of next Wednesday's eagerly-awaited first-round replay at Newport Stadium.

After his Second Division outfit went perilously close to being dumped out of the world's most famous domestic cup competition in Saturday's thrilling 2-2 draw, McMahon admitted: "It wasn't a fluke. Newport impressed me very much. It was a great result for them and fully deserved at that."

In contrast, McMahon said his team gave the worst display since he arrived at the club. He reflected: "Newport made it difficult for us - they were well organised. But it was our worst display since I took over. I expect better from my players. The plus side is that we are still in the FA Cup. We could have so easily been out."

McMahon went on: "All credit to Newport. They came to our place and did their job properly - all the players worked for their manager."

And he also had praise for the near 1,000 travelling County fans. "The Newport supporters were excellent too," he pointed out. "I've got nothing but praise for them. The team and the fans got everything they deserved. I'm just glad we have got a second bite of the cherry."

McMahon, who saw his side go behind twice against the Dr Martens Premier Division outfit, added: "You would have thought we'd have got the impetus to build on our equaliser - but we didn't.

"It was backs against the wall for Newport in the second half, but they defended very, very well."

But he warned: "We know we have more in our tank. All our players can play a lot better. It's going to be difficult at Newport. They'll pack their place to the rafters. But we're ready." l Fans had another chance to buy tickets for the replay today from 10am to 7pm at the stadium. Any unsold tickets can be bought on Saturday when County take on Tiverton at Newport Stadium (3pm).