CARETAKER manager Michael Flynn has urged his Newport County AFC players to keep their feet on the ground and finish the job at Carlisle United next week.

There were scenes of celebration at Rodney Parade as a Ryan Bird header on the hour saw the Exiles edge past play-off contenders Accrington Stanley 1-0.

The three points saw Flynn’s men move out of the League Two relegation zone for the first time since November 19.

And they are in control of their own destiny as they enter the final two games of the season two points clear of the drop zone after defeats for relegation rivals Hartlepool United and Cheltenham Town, who play each other next week.

“It’s a massive three points,” said Flynn. “It is a bright reaction from the boys and it’s a huge win especially with the other results.

“Six weeks ago we were nowhere near, let’s be honest,” he said.

“It was a hope, prayer, wishful thinking, but I’ll tell you what’s got us here – hard work, togetherness and a great appetite to produce the goods for the club.”

But Flynn knows that nothing is settled yet.

“We’ll stay grounded,” he said. “Why would we get carried away? We’re 22nd in League Two – it’s nothing to sing and dance about.

“We’ve got two games to go and I want to finish it off next week if we can and then we can get the place rocking again in two weeks.

“Accrington are a great team, they are difficult to beat,” he added.

“The boys have so much character and discipline they were outstanding today.

“I have said to the boys it will go one of two ways from now on.

“They will have a freeze or they can go and grab it by the scruff of the neck and be safe with a game to go.”