The Hatters had taken the lead through Chris Martin's low drive in the 49th minute only for the Magpies to level from the spot through Jamie Forrester four minutes later after Parkin had needlessly handled in the area.

It left the hosts on minus 26 points at the bottom of League Two, but Harford refused to be too critical of his striker, who scored the winner the week previously against Gillingham.

Harford said: "Sam apologised afterwards in the dressing room. It was just one of those silly things that we all do from time to time.

"There were no complaints from any of our players about the decision when it happened and that's when you know it's a penalty.

"Sometimes if you're marking someone and you feel you can't get to them or you feel they're going to score you throw your hands up and I think that's what happened with Sam. It was one of those things that happens but the timing of it hurt us."