Newport County gave their reaction to the Latics impressive victory at Rodney Parade. It was a rare home defeat for the Exiles and it was all down to a Zak Mills’ first-half injury-time finish. Mills was described as, “... by a country mile the best player on the pitch from either side.” After the FA Cup midweek win over Grimsby Town, Mike Flynn made some changes while the Latics' players had been taking a rest after a postponement due to International call-ups. Latics boss Maamria sent his team out blazing as they took the game to Newport. After early pressure Newport struggled against a resolute Oldham defence. The decisive goal came after Alex Iacovitti set up Jonny Smith who's shot was well saved but Zak Mills was on hand to put the ball home on the rebound.
The second half was a much-improved performance but County couldn’t find the desired equaliser as Oldham secured their first victory over the Exiles for the first time in nearly 40 years, although in reality, the teams have not played each other on a regular basis. To sum up, De La Paz didn’t particularly have too much to do as the Latics were comfortable heading balls away from the penalty area.