NEWPORT County AFC were beaten 2-1 at Portsmouth after Kyle Bennett and Kal Naismith put the hosts in charge and the Exiles couldn't force an equalizer after Alex Samuel pulled one back. Here's what we learned...
1. It’s as you were but time is running out
Another defeat but losses for Cheltenham Town and Hartlepool United, who both took the lead in their respective matches, means that County didn’t lose any ground and remain six points from safety.
On the other hand it’s another game gone and another chance to make up ground gone.
And Notts County’s surprise win at Wycombe Wanderers puts them 13 points ahead of the Exiles and out of reach.
2. Changing it up
Michael Flynn showed that he’s not afraid to make changes if things aren’t working, switching from a back three to 4-4-2 midway through the first half and sending on a note from the bench to explain the rethink.
Ryan Bird and Tom Owen-Evans were also sacrificed at half-time as the manager shook things up again and the Exiles ended the match with four up front in the search for an equalizer.
The end result was a defeat but Flynn is certainly not afraid to try different options and throw everything at the opposition.
3. Bird no longer flying
The striker has netted five times in 13 appearances since his debut at the end of January but March has been a barren month apart from the penalty at Morecambe.
Bird has struggled to make an impact from open play in recent weeks and was hooked after giving the ball away for Portsmouth’s opening goal, suggesting it might be time to give someone else a go up front.
4. Rejuvenated Jackson
First in line for a start if Bird is rested will be Marlon Jackson (above), who has looked a player with a new lease of life in the last two games.
A target of boo boys for much of the season, Jackson impressed in a late cameo against Luton.
And, even though he missed two good chances, the striker also forced Pompey’s David Forde into a fine save and provided much more attacking impetus than Bird after replacing him at half-time.
5. Randall can provide a spark
Another substitute who made a big impact in the second half was midfielder Mark Randall who played a big part in Alex Samuel’s goal and created a glorious chance for Jackson with a superb long ball into the box.
Flynn has talked about the former Arsenal man’s head being in the right place and his display at Fratton Park highlights the folly of sidelining such a talented player when County need all the help they can get.
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