NEWPORT County AFC were brought down to earth with a defeat at Sixfields this afternoon.

After the euphoria of the wins over Accrington Stanley and at Brighton in the League Cup, Justin Edinburgh's men got a reality check at Northampton.

County dominated the early stages and the Cobblers were kept in the game by their outstanding goalkeeper Matt Duke but they were stunned by two goals in two minutes midway through the first half.

First Jamie Stephens missed a cross and home striker Jacob Blyth headed in on 25 minutes and then Roy O'Donovan slotted home on 27 minutes.

Despite constant County pressure they were hit on the break and Gary Deegan secured the three points for the hosts on 84 minutes.

Substitute Conor Washington grabbed a consolation goal three minutes before the end after a determined run and good finish at the second attempt.

Exiles boss Justin Edinburgh said: "I think the score line was very harsh on us. Anyone who was here today will know we gave a very good account of ourselves and the score line perhaps doesn't reflect the game really.

"We've not been ruthless enough in their box and we're disappointed with the goals we've conceded. But listen, it's a learning curve. If you don't take your chances then you've got to make sure you don't give easy chances away."