Christian Fuchs believes the team played with “a lot of heart” despite suffering a 3-1 defeat to Notts County.
County still sit just outside the relegation zone, one point ahead of Harrogate Town and Barrow.
The Newport manager admitted there were frustrating parts to the game, especially in the first half.
Speaking on the two set-piece goals, he said: “That was a frustrating part of the game, especially in the first half.
“That was one of our strengths so far this season, where we were really sound defensively from set-pieces.”
The County manager was also left frustrated after Notts County added a third late on.
“We need to make better decisions there. Either you go beyond or you roll it out and then go up. But we cannot go back, we cannot change what happened. We just need to learn from those mistakes and stop them.”
However, despite the result, Fuchs insists the team fought well.
“Nevertheless, the boys showed a good reaction in the second half. They played with a lot of intensity, a lot of desire and a lot of heart.”
The manager also praised Harrison Biggins for his impressive finish but believes County could have scored more.
“It’s a tough skill, it’s a tough moment because you have the pressure from the goalkeeper right behind you.
“But I think there was more in the game than just his one goal. I think Bobby (Kamwa) had a clear chance that needed to go in. That was a great counterattack, great ball from Nathan (Opoku).”
Another positive was that all of the bottom six sides also suffered defeat, meaning Newport’s safety remains in their own hands as they face Harrogate on Saturday.
“The boys know about the other results; they know they still have it in their own hands. They especially know that the spirit in the second half showed what they’re capable of doing, and that’s what we need to continue.”
