NELSON Jardim felt that Peterborough’s ‘Premier League’ quality was the difference after Newport County AFC were knocked out of the FA Cup in the first round.
The Exiles were scenting another upset in the famous competition when they went 2-0 in front against their visitors from League One.
Anthony Glennon curled in a free-kick in the eighth minute and soon afterwards midfielder Kai Whitmore calmly finished from inside the box.
However, the Posh got back in the game through dangerman Abraham Odoh on the half hour and then controversially had a leveller chalked off shortly before the break when the officials deemed the ball had gone through the side netting.
Peterborough state that footage shows it was an own goal but their complaints are not loud after Joel Randall slammed in an equaliser in the 70th minute and then Ricky Jade-Jones scored in the 89th and in added time.
County battled hard but the Posh deservedly progressed with wingers Odoh and Kwame Poku a menace throughout.
“We are frustrated with the result but I was proud about the effort of everyone, we have shown that we really compete,” said head coach Jardim.
“It was such a good start and there were plenty of positives from the game. We knew that we were facing a very strong side from League One with very good players but I am proud of my team.
“They had quality but so do we, they just showed a little bit extra. We competed hard but we faced some players who I am sure that we will see in the Premier League in the future.
“We knew that Peterborough’s front four are very good players and that as a team they always find a way to find them.
“When they did find them we saw their quality and as a coach I’d like to have those sort of wingers in my side.
“But we showed effort, commitment, spirit and that we are a team with strong characters in it.”
Jardim was forced into three changes to his side after County opted to be cautious ahead of the return to League Two action at Tranmere next weekend.
Bryn Morris was not included after playing through a knock recently, fellow midfielder Aaron Wildig was an unused substitute because of a back injury and Bobby Kamwa came off the bench after having limited training due to a bug.
“We have been struggling with knocks and there was some illness,” said Jardim. “Now it’s about recovery and watching to see what area we can improve in.”
Full-back/midfielder Shane McLoughlin returned to the matchday squad for the first time since the start of September but didn’t come on due to the potential for extra time, with medical staff warning about his game time.
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