MICHAEL Flynn returns to where it all began for him as a manager when he takes his Newport County AFC side back to Crewe Alexandra today.

Flynn’s first match as caretaker manager after replacing Graham Westley in March was at Gresty Road.

The Exiles fought back from a goal down to win 2-1 thanks to an equalizer from left-back Dan Butler and an 88th-minute winner from captain Joss Labadie.

It was the first of seven wins in the final 12 matches of the season that saw County complete the Great Escape, avoiding relegation by securing 22nd place in the League Two table on the final day of the season.

There is less pressure on Flynn, now permanent manager, and his team this afternoon but he’s hoping for a similar outcome.

“I had a job to do then and I’ve got a job to do now,” said the boss.

“The only thing is that we’ve got another 45 games to go and we’re not 11 points adrift this time.

“That’s the only difference but I’m going there to win a football match exactly like last season and hopefully we get the same result or better.”

County started their league campaign with a dramatic 3-3 draw at Stevenage last Saturday, battling back from 3-1 down to level in stoppage time.

And they followed that up with a superb display on Tuesday night as they won 2-0 at Southend United in the Carabao Cup.

“It’s gone alright so far,” said Flynn. “I wish we had taken the three points at Stevenage but the way the boys battled back was excellent and just showed what they’re all about.

“And Tuesday was a very good performance against a good League One side.

“I’m obviously pleased with the start so far but I’m definitely not getting carried away.

“We’ve had two games and we’ve got another tough away game against Crewe.

“They play some lovely football and they’ve got some really good players.”

After today’s match at Crewe, County go to Coventry City next Saturday before their first home game at Rodney Parade – against Chesterfield on August 26.

“It would be an achievement to get to the first home game unbeaten but if you said to me now that I could either draw the next two or win one and lose one I’d rather win one and lose one because it’s an extra point,” said Flynn.

“I’m not too concerned about being unbeaten. If we go and win the two then that’s brilliant and it would be the icing on the cake but I’m not even looking at Coventry at the minute.

“My sole focus is on a tough game at Crewe.”

Reflecting on the shock win at Southend, Flynn added: “The boys were tired. They worked extremely hard on Tuesday.

“It was a long day and a late night but once you get that win it makes it all worthwhile.

“It hopefully gives them the appetite to want to do it again and again. I certainly love winning.”