NEWPORT County AFC manager John Sheridan says the point earned at promotion contenders Oxford United could have been three if his side believed in themselves more.

Lenell John-Lewis gave the Exiles the lead just before half-time at the Kassam Stadium with a stunning strike but they had to settle for a draw after substitute Pat Hoban levelled on 73 minutes.

"I think Oxford were the better side and put us on the back foot for a lot of the second half, but I was very pleased with the way we played first half," said Sheridan.

"It's a good point because they are going well. I just think that if we believed in ourselves a little more and we were brave and we took care of the ball a little bit more we could have caused them more problems.

"It's just about having a bit of game know-how and seeing the game through. But we gave the ball away cheaply and you end up on the back foot."

The draw means County extended their unbeaten run to eight matches - although they have drawn their last four league matches.

They remain 21st in the League Two table - four points above the relegation zone - ahead of Saturday's clash with Luton Town at Rodney Parade.