December 23, 2024

In today’s first round proper tie at Rodney Parade, Shane McLoughlin struck twice to send Newport County into the hat for the second round draw.

Wing-back McLoughlin arrived at the back post to drive the ball home from 15 yards after fine build-up play by Omar Bogle and Matty Bondswell.

Newport ‘keeper Nick Townsend needed a flying save to stop Joe Nuttall heading Latics level, then later had to push away Alex Reid’s half-volley.

But McLoughlin’s ranged shot found the bottom corner to settle the result.

League Two Newport started the game 15 places above National League Latics in the league pyramid and showed just that extra bit of quality, with Bogle in particular a handful for the visiting defence.

Micky Mellon’s Latics return to National League action next Saturday with a home clash against Eastleigh.

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