NEWPORT County AFC manager Michael Flynn was bursting with pride after his side returned to form with a deserved 2-1 victory over League One Walsall in the FA Cup first round.

Frank Nouble ended his 12-game goal drought with the opener after 18 minutes.

And fellow striker Shawn McCoulsky put County in charge just 25 seconds into the second half with a sweet strike from an acute angle.

Substitute Ama Bakayoko pulled a goal back for Walsall 13 minutes from the end but Flynn’s men held on to claim their place in Monday’s second-round draw.

“It was an outstanding disciplined performance,” said the Exiles boss.

“It was almost a perfect defensive display.

“We knew they were going to have a lot of the ball and we worked on that in training.

“The boys were excellent, they took everything on board and you saw that.

“I can’t really remember a save Joe had to make – the discipline and the shape of the defensive unit was spot on.

“We knew that they would have a lot of the ball but that didn’t faze us because we knew that we could score goals.

“I’m a little bit disappointed with the goal we conceded – if we cut out those little things, we will be a very good team.

“But I’m absolutely delighted with the result and the performance and I’m obviously glad Frank has got on the scoresheet and ended that drought.”

The victory ends a run of three games without a win for County and Flynn was delighted with his side’s display in front of the S4C cameras.

“We’ve not won for three games and I take it as a compliment that it’s getting mentioned,” he added.

“It’s a great way to bounce back, get into the next round of the FA Cup and get some important finances for the club.

“I’m praying for another home draw now because we’ll give anyone a game at home.”