Scot Bennett effort enough as Newport edge Lincoln to keep up play-off push

Posted Sunday, April 28, 2019 by PA

Newport remain on course for a League Two play-off place as Scot Bennett’s early goal proved enough to claim a 1-0 triumph over champions Lincoln.

Michael Flynn’s men took advantage of the Imps’ title celebration hangover to take the lead after seven minutes.

Matty Dolan played an incisive pass into the path of Padraig Amond, who took the ball to the by-line and cut it back for Bennett to rifle a powerful shot off the bar and in for an early lead.

The Exiles had to hold on before the break with a gusting wind in their faces.

John Akinde flashed a ball across a gaping goal before Matt Rhead failed to make contact six yards from goal, and County held on to stay 1-0 up at the break.

Newport almost got a second when Robbie Willmott’s curling delivery from a free-kick evaded everyone and forced Lincoln goalkeeper Josh Vickers into a reaction save.

The hosts looked comfortable enough until Josh Sheehan was robbed of possession on the edge of his box, but his blushes were spared by Shay McCarten, who fired wide from close range to hand Newport a victory that keeps their fate in their own hands.