STRIKER Frank Nouble says boss Michael Flynn and the players are attempting to introduce a “winning mentality” to Newport County AFC, writes Josh Thomas.

Goals from Nouble and Padraig Amond gave County victory over League Two leaders Accrington Stanley on Tuesday night.

The three points saw the Exiles move up to 13th in the table and they will hope to move up at least one more position when they host 12th-placed Cambridge United on Saturday.

And Nouble believes that the impressive team display against Accrington shows they can get closer to the play-offs next season.

“We put in a battling performance against a top team,” said the former West Ham United man.

“I think we played well, everyone played well, it was a good grind and we got the win in the end.

“It’s the second home win in a row, which is brilliant really, it’s just a shame that we aren’t fighting for anything.

“As long as we can end the season well, it will bode well for next year.”

He added: “We are trying to bring a winning mentality to the club.

“Our FA Cup run was brilliant but our bread and butter is the league and we want to do well next year.

“It was brilliant and we got as far as we could [in the cup] and we’ve done well but that’s obviously gone now and the league is the most important thing.

“We look at a team like Accrington, you know, similar budget to us, and they’ve done brilliantly.

“That’s something we strive for, so hopefully we can end the season well and keep the momentum going for next year.

“We just want to end it as well as possible, get as high as we can and as many points as we can and show the fans we are still fighting to the end.”

Despite missing out on the top seven this season, Nouble believes it’s been a successful campaign for the players and the manager.

“He’s a brilliant guy,” he said when asked about Flynn. “First and foremost, he’s done brilliant for himself.

“It’s his first proper year in the job and I think he’s had a fantastic year, but I think the boys have as well.

“I know we are a bit disappointed not to be in the play-offs but we can’t be too negative, you know we’ve come a long way.”

Tuesday’s strike was Nouble’s ninth of the season and he’s determined to end the term in double digits.

“I won’t be happy until I get into double figures, so hopefully I can get them in the next three games,” said the former Premier League forward, who was delighted to end his goal drought on his mum’s birthday.

“I got lucky, it was the first time I got some space and I put it away well. It was hard work and perseverance got me my goal.

“I’m pleased with it, it’s been a long time coming for me personally so I’m just happy it came.

“I’m happy to get the win and buzzing we won against a top team.

“We always want to prove ourselves against the best teams and we showed that we can match anyone.”