Newport boss Hughes backs Kamwa after penalty miss

Newport County manager David Hughes has backed forward Bobby Kamwa after his crucial penalty miss against MK Dons.

County were trailing 2-1 when they were awarded a 70th minute penalty, but Kamwa's spot kick came back off the post.

It capped off a frustrating game for Newport, who were perplexed by the referee's decision to award Dons a penalty in the first half - which Nathaniel Mendez-Laing converted.

Despite Kamwa's miss, Hughes had nothing but praise for his forward.

"I'd never criticise anyone for missing a penalty," said Hughes.

"It takes real courage to step up and take it.

"It happens, so well done to Bobby for stepping up and taking it, unfortunately this time it didn't go in.

"I'm sure it will in future."

County were without striker Courtney Baker-Richardson, who took penalties when on the field for Newport last season.

Hughes said the forward's omission was down to a knock, but not a serious one.

"He had a sore calf on Thursday so we sent him for a scan to make sure it was nothing sinister," said Hughes.

"So he didn't train yesterday, to then have him involved would have been a risk.

"Thankfully the scan was all clear so he will be back in on Monday."