Graham Westley: Newport County boss happy despite FA Cup first-round replay

Newport County boss Graham Westley was happy with his side, despite them being taken to an FA Cup first-round replay by Alfreton Town.

Josh Sheehan gave Westley's side the lead on 65 minutes, but Terry Kennedy equalised to earn a replay.

"They had their chances in both halves, they took one and we took one," Westley told BBC Radio Wales.

"I'd have probably taken that at the beginning of the day. That's not to be unambitious, they've got good players."

Alfreton are 16th in the National League North, 40 places below Westley's side in the English league pyramid.

The teams will meet again at Rodney Parade on Tuesday, 15 November.

"They've got lads with good experience at a good level and have some good loanees alongside that," said Westley.

"They're a side that was always going to give us a contest and I think they performed to a very good level.

"The FA Cup is about vibrancy and positivity and playing with an attacking mentality and we couldn't do that with so many players out injured.

"All that considered, I'd have taken that result and a second bite of the cherry but hopefully we can get one or two back and be stronger for the return game."

Westley fielded a young starting line-up against Alfreton and believes their lack of match experience may be the reason they could not see the game out.

"We could have shown better habits when we got in front but we are a young side and with that comes inexperience," he added.