NEWPORT County assistant boss Scott Young believes opponents Havant and Waterlooville might suffer a bit of a hangover today following their FA Cup exploits, and he should know, writes Michael Pearlman.

Just seven days after his late winner dumped Leeds United out of the FA Cup back in 2002, Young's Cardiff City crashed 2-0 at Ninian Park to lowly Peterborough United.

"We were useless that day and that can happen all too easily," he explained.

"We were on such a high after beating Leeds and no doubt Havant will have that same feeling after beating Swansea.

"It can be a case of after the Lord Mayor's show, this is a long trip and a hard game for them.

"But it reflects brilliantly on our league and to be honest the fact that it was against Swansea makes it all the sweeter!"

Young believes the feel-good factor is returning to Spytty Park with the Exiles looking good for at least a play-off place.

"We feel we've made real progress, we've only lost four times in the league and largely the crowds we've been getting have been very good," he said.

"Against Torquay the crowd was superb and it's vital to us that we keep getting 1,000+, it gives everyone such a huge lift.

"When the crowd is really passionate it must affect the opposition, most teams in this league just aren't used to playing in front of so many people."

Young admits he's taken special pride in the improvement of County's defending this term and paid tribute to Mark Dodds.

"The five of them (Glyn Thompson, Steve Jenkins, Damon Searle, Lee Jarman and Ian Hillier) have been awesome this season," he said.

"But just look at Mark Dodds, he comes in for a massive game like Torquay and not only defends brilliantly but scores a great goal as well. His contribution just can't be overlooked."

l Today's game is subject to a 9am pitch inspection and supporters are encouraged to check the club website for updates.