County aim to increase gap to League Two drop zone after dramatic New Year's Day
NEWPORT County AFC will aim to build a nine-point gap to the League Two relegation zone on Thursday night after late drama on New Year's Day.
The Exiles watched on with interest ahead of their fixture with AFC Wimbledon, with the Rodney Parade encounter pushed back a day due to the Dons playing on Monday.
Carlisle looked set for a massive win against promotion-chasing Crewe at Gresty Road when they led 2-1 in added time.
However, former Exiles striker Omar Bogle headed an equaliser in the third minute of time added on and then Jack Lankester snatched all three points five minutes later.
The League Two standings after the results on New Year's Day, 2025 (Image: EFL)
The Cumbrians, who are poised for a busy January, are eight points back on County having played a game more.
Morecambe secured their first home league win of the season and moved off the foot of the table by beating Tranmere 2-0.
A Yann Songo’o header and Jamie Stott finish gave the Shrimps a second win in three and piled the pressure on Tranmere boss Nigel Adkins, whose side have won just one of their last eight league games and sit two points above the relegation zone.
Morecambe travel to Newport on Sunday.
There was also late drama at Swindon, who are now two back on County after beating Colchester 3-2 with a penalty deep in added time.
Accrington came from behind twice to win 3-2 at home against Grimsby but Harrogate, who have midfielder Bryn Morris available for this weekend after his move from the Exiles, continue to struggle.
They are just two points above the drop zone - and four behind County having played two more games - after a 2-0 loss at home to Salford.
Leaders Walsall had to come from behind to topple Notts County with goals from Jamille Matt and Nathan Lowe securing a 2-1 victory.
The Saddlers are 12 points clear at the top with their nearest rivals Doncaster also winning 2-1 against Fleetwood, although it was stoppage time when Billy Sharp pounced to secure all three points.
Port Vale lost ground in the promotion race after a goalless draw with Cheltenham, MK Dons won 2-1 at Chesterfield and it was 2-2 between Barrow and Bradford.
