NEWPORT County AFC manager Michael Flynn insists today's FA Cup third round victory over Championship club Leeds United beats the feeling of completing the Great Escape from relegation last season.

Speaking after substitute Shawn McCoulsky headed an 89th-minute winner at a packed Rodney Parade, Flynn said: "This is much better, beating Championship teams like Leeds.

"I don't want to be winning relegation battles, I want to be winning FA Cup ties and climbing the table."

A Leeds side showing nine changes from their previous game led thanks to Gaetano Berardi's deflected strike in the 10th minute.

But County dominated for much of the match and deservedly levelled through an own goal from Conor Shaughnessy on 76 minutes.

"I thought we were the better team in the first half," added Flynn.

"The goal was unfortunate, but we had chances and kept going. I told them we don't have to win the game in the first 10 minutes of the second half and we got crosses into the box.

"It was an outstanding header. He (McCoulsky) has 11 goals for us this season and he has been superb for us. He was hungry and wanted it and I am delighted."

South Wales Argus: