NEWPORT County maintained their lead of two points at the top of the Blue Square Conference South table last night without kicking a ball.
While the Exiles were preparing for a trip to Staines next Tuesday, second placed Dover Athletic slipped up, losing 3-2 at home to Basingstoke.
It provides Dean Holdsworth's charges a boost ahead of what is a frustrating week, the Exiles inactive on Saturday for the first time since the start of the campaign.
County's scheduled opponents Thurrock are in FA Cup fourth qualifying round action against Conference Premier leaders Oxford, a reminder of what might have been after the Exiles shock exit at Paulton Rovers.
Paulton host Chippenham in a contest that is likely to attract some County fans who are planning on supporting the side who knocked them out of the famous competition with a fine performance a fortnight ago.
The Exiles faithful will also be without Saturday football on November 14, though they can console themselves with the chance to watch Wales' friendly with Scotland at the Cardiff City stadium.
The international fixture means County will instead host Bromley in league action on Friday, November 13, kick-off 7.45pm.
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