NEWPORT County AFC manager Michael Flynn was left to rue defensive mistakes and missed chances as his side exited the Carabao Cup at the hands of West Ham United.

Goals either side of half-time from Jack Wilshere and Pablo Fornals, after mistakes from Kyle Howkins and Scot Bennett, gave the Premier League side victory.

But County had opportunities of their own with Padraig Amond going close in the first half and Josh Sheehan hitting the bar late on.

“I thought we were very good but you can’t make those mistakes like we did for the two goals,” said Flynn afterwards.

“The first one with Kyle then Scot and you can’t afford to miss the chances we had.

“We had two sitters. Score first and it’s a different game.

“It’s always nice when Mr Pellegrini says how impressed he was with our team. But you still want to win those games.”

South Wales Argus:

Hammers boss Manuel Pellegrini said: “I’m happy for the result, because we qualify for the next round, happy for not conceding a goal and happy with the performance – especially the last 45 minutes of the game.

“I think we dominated [in the second half]. The first 45 minutes was more equal.

“We knew that Newport is a difficult team here in this pitch with a direct style with so many crosses, but I think that we played a good game.”

Wilshere was delighted to score his first goal since January 2018.

“I’m buzzing to score my first proper goal for the club,” said the former England international. “Hopefully there are many more to come.

“Thanks to all the fans who made it down here. I look forward to the next round and we go again.”

Read more: Newport County 0 West Ham United 2 - match report