Newport County 0-2 Rochdale

Newport County ended their League Two campaign in disappointing fashion as they suffered a fifth successive home defeat for the first time in the Football League since 1988.

County were third in the table and dreaming of automatic promotion in mid-March, but a dismal run of results saw them slip out of contention for even a play-off spot.

And this defeat, courtesy of Matty Done’s early strike and a second in stoppage-time from substitute Abraham Odoh, means they finish the season in 11th place.

The biggest cheer from the home fans came when referee Lee Swabey was forced off with an injury and replaced by fourth official Simon Shaw after 20 minutes.

By that stage, Rochdale were already in front after Done produced an emphatic finish into the top corner in the 16th minute following a defence-splitting ball from Ethan Brierley.

The County supporters were adamant that Done was offside, but few would have argued that Rochdale didn’t deserve to be ahead.

James Rowberry’s men didn’t fashion a real chance until 10 minutes before the interval when Scot Bennett’s powerful goalbound effort was well blocked by Max Taylor.

Defender Josh Pask also flicked a header over the bar after being picked out by Bennett on the left soon afterwards, but Rochdale were otherwise untroubled.

Liverpool loanee Jake Cain replaced Swansea City youngster Oli Cooper at the start of the second half for what is likely to have been a farewell appearance for both.

Aston Villa loan star Finn Azaz will also return to his parent club, while League Two top scorer Dom Telford is out of contract and will have plenty of suitors.

It’s not the way that any of them would have wanted to sign off at Rodney Parade after a hugely-promising season that tailed off