Penalty decision angers Derry

Notts County boss Shaun Derry believes a harsh penalty decision cost his team in a 3-0 defeat to Swindon at the County Ground.

The hosts were leading through on-loan Chelsea teenager John Swift's goal when referee Gavin Ward and his assistant awarded a soft penalty for an infringement by veteran goalkeeper Roy Carroll. Andy Williams converted the resulting spot-kick to make it 2-0 after 64 minutes. Magpies midfielder Liam Noble later collected a stupid red card - his third of the season - for two quick bookings, allowing space on the pitch for Harry Toffolo to add a third goal on the break late on. Derry said: "I've looked at the video four or five times and it was never a penalty. It's changed the whole complex of the afternoon. "That second goal killed us and we couldn't recover." On Noble's sending off, Derry added: "I can't stand by the player. "Liam's got himself sent off for the third time this season, it's not sensible. I can't back him. He's got a problem in his make-up. He's got a flaw in his character. "I can't help with this. I don't think anyone can, other than Liam. He needs to look at himself very deeply. "He's a young footballer who is trying to stay at League one level. And has done really well when he plays but he's not played enough." But while Derry was understandably aggrieved, Swindon boss Mark Cooper was delighted with result, particularly after the manner in which Swindon had collapsed, losing 3-0 to Gillingham in midweek. He said: "It shows our character. I thought we played quite well never looked in danger and ran out worthy winners. "At half-time I thought we needed to be cleverer in the final third and produce that extra bit of quality to lead to the goal. We didn't pull the trigger enough. We managed to do that. "It was brilliant goal from John Swift. He's made himself a yard and bent one in the corner. It was a lovely finish. "He's got tremendous ability - if you get him enough of the ball in the right area."