NEWPORT COUNTY AFC 2016/17

SEASON REVIEW 17/18

Newport County and manager Michael Flynn can look back on 2017/18 with considerable pride. After the great escape of 2016/17 no one expected a promotion miracle but they got the next best thing. In the FA Cup the Exiles put away Leeds United in spectacular fashion and then were leading mighty Tottenham Hostpur at Rodney Parade for 82 minutes only to be denied by Harry Kane. A match at Wembley, bumper home crowds and television revenue together with extra cash from transfer sales for Lee Evans will swell the club's coffers by up to a £1 million, not bad for a side with an annual turnover of £2 million.

Off the field the club reported a loss of £350k in 2016-17 and will lose Chief Executive Alex Tunbridge to Stevenage in June. The work on the Rodney Parade pitch paid dividends with only one postponement due to heavy snow. Attendances were up with the average home gate 3,489 compared to 2,861 in the previous season.

The League campaign was starting to show promise just when County became absorbed in the FA cup fever of their tie with Tottenham. The distraction affected their League form. They played Tottenham at home on January 27. From January 30 to March 6 they picked up only three points from six games and any pretensions to a play off position faded, slipping from fifth position to thirteenth. Defender Mickey Demetriou (53 appearances) and goalkeeper Joe Day (52) were the mainstays of the side. A number of excellent loan signings figured in the campaign not least defender Ben White (50 appearances) and super-sub Shawn McClousky (29). The loss of midfield general Joss Labadie through injury left a significant chasm towards the end of the season. Up front Padraig Amond ended the season well leading the tally with 14 goals. The Exiles finished a comfortable eleventh, with a good profit from a fantastic cup run, a promising young manager at the helm and lots to look forward to for supporters in 2018/19.

COUNTY FINISH WITH DRAW AT CARLISLE

May 6 - Newport County finish their season in solid fashion with a 1-1 draw against Carlisle at Burnden Park. Carlisle took the lead on 14 minutes as Mark Ellis headed in Mike Jones's cross. On 38 minutes Padraig Amond replied in similar fashion directing Robbie Willmott's cross into the net.

Newport manager Mike Flynn told BBC Sport Wales: "I thought it was very good as an end-of-season game. The first 10-15 minutes were a bit worrying because I thought were, let's say, not very intense. But they picked it up, we scored and I thought the players were excellent. It thought it was a very professional performance." County finish 11th.

EXILES GO DOWN AT RELEGATED CHESTERFIELD

May 3 - Relegated Chesterfield beat Newport 1-0 in a rearranged fixture after snow postponed the original meeting in April. Although Newport had the better of the chances it was the home side who found an opening on 70 minutes when Kristian Dennis headed home Louis Dodds' cross. Chesterfield stay bottom despite victory; Newport remain in 11th.

COUNTY EASE PAST CAMBRIDGE

Apr 30 - Newport County eased past mid table Cambridge 2-1 despite conceding a late goal. Defender Mickey Demetriou scored his third goal in eight games as his shot beat Dimitar Mitov after 26 minutes. Frank Nouble added a second just before the hour mark as he volleyed home following Aaron Collins' assist. Cambridge pulled a goal back when George Maris beat Joe Day from outside the penalty area but could not find an equaliser as County held on.

COUNTY BEAT LEADERS

Apr 24 - Newport County upset leaders Accrington Stanley 2-1 to deny them the point required for the league title at Rodney Parade. A fine strike by Padraig Among gave the Exiles a deserved first half lead. Veteran striker Frank Nouble made it 2-0 after 85 minutes but Billy Kee pulled one back in the first minute of injury time to set up a nervous conclusion to the match.

BASEMENT SIDE COMFORTABLY BEAT EXILES

Apr 22 - The Exiles were beaten 2-0 at basement side Barnet on Saturday. Goals from Shaq Coulthirst and Ricardo Santos were enough for Martin Allen's side to secure a second win in three. Newport County manager Mike Flynn said afterwards: "That was the worst performance under me. I can't handle that or stomach it. We prepared as usual and nobody saw it coming."

COUNTY MAKE BIG LOSS IN 2016-17

Apr 18 - Newport County have reported a loss of more than £350,000 in their latest set of financial accounts. But the board of the League Two club says a profit is expected following their 2017-18 FA Cup exploits. Club bosses also insist they have prepared "strict budgets" for the future. And manager Mike Flynn says Shawn McCoulsky's FA Cup winner against Leeds United in January may have "saved" the club from financial ruin. County's loss of £351,456 was for the financial year ending June 2017. It compared with a profit of £339,522 for the previous year.
"During the year 2016-17 season the club experienced poor performances both on and off the field," says the club.

NEWPORT SEE OFF SWINDON

Apr 14 - Newport secured a first win since January as they beat play off chasing Swindon Town 2-1 at Rodney Parade. First half goals from Padraig Amond and Ben Tozer gave them a deserved lead but on the hour Paul Mullin pulled one back. Within five minutes the Robins were down to ten men as Rollin Menayese was sent off for two bookable offences. Newport move up to twelfth.

STEVENAGE DO THE DOUBLE OVER EXILES

Apr 7 - Stevanage completed a well deserved double over Newport with Chris Whelpdale's goal on the stroke of half-time as County made it a fourth game without a win as hopes of a play-off push all but faded. Danny Newton missed two chances late on to put the game out of Newport's reach in front of a crowd of 4,007.

April 2 - Newport's match with Chesterfield was postponed due to a snow covered pitch.

COUNTY HELD BY COVENTRY

Apr 1 - Newport County were held by promotion chasing Coventry in front of 4667 at Rodney Parade. Newport took the lead thanks to a combined move involving David Pipe, Matty Dolan, Robbie Willmott and Paul Hayes, with Mickey Demetriou firing home. Padraig Amond saw an effort cleared off the line and headed against the bar as the Exiles dominated play. Coventry hit back after the interval and scored on the break through Maxime Biamou on 79 minutes.

END OF PLAY OFF HOPES FOR COUNTY

Mar 25 - Newport County's hopes of a League Two play-off spot were all but ended as they lost to improving Crewe by 2 goals to 1.
A superb individual opener by Harry McKirdy midway through the first half opened the scoring in front of a 4638 crowd at Rodney Parade. Newport thought they should have had a penalty for a foul on Robbie Willmott before Jordan Bowery doubled the lead on the hour mark. Mickey Demetriou pulled a goal back, but Crewe held on for victory.

COUNTY FIGHT OUT DRAW WITH HIGH-FLYING LUTON

Mar 18 - Newport County held high-flying Luton Town to a 1-1 draw at Rodney Parade. The Exiles took the lead after two minutes, Aaron Collins' initial effort fell to Josh Sheehan who squeezed it home. On 25 minutes Dan Potts' headed home to bring it level. Newport sit seven points adrift of the play offs.

LABADIE OUT FOR TWELVE MONTHS?

Mar 13 - Newport midfield talisman and captain Joss Labadie could be facing up to a year on the sidelines with a suspected cruciate knee injury incurred at Yeovil.

EXILES IN FINE WIN AT YEOVIL

Mar 11 - Hopes of a late charge for the play off places were rekindled by Newport County's 2-0 win at Yeovil. They are five points adrift with eleven games to go. The Exiles took the lead midway through the second half when Ben White's cross was scuffed home by Josh Sheehan. Newport were flattered by the final scoreline as Paul Hayes scored his third goal in two matches in the 93rd minute. Newport County manager Mike Flynn told BBC Sport Wales: "We are very thrilled, it has been a long time coming and we should have won our previous two matches."

FA ISSUE FINAL WARNING TO NEWPORT

Mar 8 - The Football Association has issued a final warning to Newport following incidents were missiles have been thrown at opposing managers and staff. It concerned incidents in the Hazell Stand during the games against Carlisle on December 9 and Lincoln on December 23.
In a statement, Newport said the outcome was one supporter ban and an ongoing police investigation with another supporter.

COUNTY THROW AWAY LEAD AGAINST FOREST GREEN

Mar 6 - Newport County threw away the lead on two occasions against Forest Green in a 3-3 draw at Rodney Parade. Lee Collins' 82nd minute strike salvaged a point for Rovers who drew 3-3 away to Newport County. They took the lead at Rodney Parade in the sixth minute through Dan Butler's own goal (his second of the season). But Butler made amends when he scored from outside the box and set up veteran striker Paul Hayes to give the Exiles the lead. Gavin Gunning equalised, before Hayes got a second to make it 3-2 at half time only for Collins effort to take the draw. This was County's third 3-all draw of the season.

SCORELESS DRAW AT PORT VALE

Feb 24 - Newport County's winless run continued but they had much the better of this nil-nil draw at Vale Park. Port Vale came closest to scoring when Tonge hit the post just before half time but the Exiles had a string of good opportunities but a combination of poor finishing and stout defence left them without the goal they deserved.

COUNTY BATTLE FOR DRAW

Feb 18 - High flying Notts County were pegged back in their promotion chase after being held to a draw by Newport County.
The Exiles started brightly but failed to take advantage, Joss Labadie had the ball in the net for Newport but it was ruled out.
Newport manager Mike Flynn told the BBC: "It was a great reaction. I knew I'd get one and it was a game I felt we edge even if it was not a very good spectacle. It was a tough battling performance and something we didn't do on Tuesday night so I'm delighted with the players."

STAGS SLAUGHTER EXILES

Feb 15 - Mansfield Town gave their promotion campaign a boost at the expense of out-of-sorts Newport County at Field Mill. Playing for the first time since their FA Cup defeat by Tottenham at Wembley, County were blown away in 35 minutes.
Danny Rose opened the scoring after six minutes, with Alfie Potter striking twice before Alex MacDonald hit the fourth in the 34th minute. Potter completed his hat-trick with a deflected shot after the break as the Stags moved into fifth place.

GAME FALLS VICTIM OF THE WEATHER

Feb 11 - A 1.15pm pitch inspection led to the postponement of Newport's game with Forest Green Rovers after several hours of continuous heavy rain.

COUNTY COUNT UP FA CUP WINDFALL

Feb 10 - Newport County expect their FA Cup run to add in excess of £900,000 to their income for the season. County held Tottenham to a 1-1 draw at Rodney Parade before losing 2-0 in the replay at Wembley in front of almost 40,000 fans.
In total County will earn well over £1m this season thanks to TV revenues from their cup run, gate receipts and a 15% sell-on clause for former midfielder Lee Evans (he recently moved from Wolves to Sheffield United for £750k).
The Exiles reached the fourth round for the first time since 1979.
"We turnover £2.2m, the cup run will probably bring in around £900,000 for us," CEO Alex Tunbridge said on BT Sport's TV coverage of the game. "That's nearly 50% of our overall turnover. The club has only been in the Football League for four years and the infrastructure is probably not where it needs to be compared to some other clubs. It allows us to develop some of the training facilities, it allows us to structure some new ticketing systems and just generally raise the profile of the club further, professionalise it a little bit more and cement ourselves as a Football League club."

FLYNN SIGNS UP

Feb 8 - Michael Flynn has signed a new contract with Newport County until the end of the 2019-20 season on enhanced wages. He is now hoping to use the Cup windfall to improve the club on and off the field.

COUNTY CUP RUN ENDED IN FINE STYLE AT WEMBLEY

Feb 7 - Tottenham Hotspur eased into the fifth round of the FA Cup with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Newport County at Wembley. But the Exiles were backed by 7,200 fans in fantastic style and claimed a moral victory of sorts by not conceding to their illustrious opponents in the second half. A fluke on 25 minutes saw Moussa Sissoko's cross diverted in off left back Dan Butler. As County heads dropped Erik Lamela deftly stroked the ball over Joe Day. The second half saw the hosts fail to convert a number of chances with Day in excellent form. The Exiles could even have scored at the death when Amond shot straight at Spurs keeper Vorm.

COUNTY FA CUP HANGOVER CONTINUES

Feb 2 - Suffering a severe bout of FA Cup hangover Newport County were beaten for a second successive match since their fourth round draw with Tottenham. Ahead of their visit to Wembley in Wednesday's replay, the Exiles lost again by two goals to nil after defeat at Lincoln as Ben Stevenson gave Colchester the lead after 58 minutes. The second came with a late goal from Tom Eastman.

To date 5000 tickets have been sold for Newport's match at Wembley. They go on general sale on Sunday (the club office is open from 9am until 6pm)

COUNTY DOWNED AT LINCOLN

Jan 31 - Lincoln overcame a tired Newport County at Sincil Bank. Having earned a fourth-round replay against Tottenham on Saturday, Newport's return to league action saw them go behind to Matt Rhead's header. Padraig Amond equalised when Matty Dolan's shot was parried into his path. But Lincoln finished strongly to ease to a 3-1 victory with goals from Green and Palmer.

NEWPORT COUNTY HOLD SPURS TO DRAW IN EXTRAORDINARY PERFORMANCE

Jan 28 - Newport County pulled off one of the greatest performances in their history to come within eight minutes of defeating a near full strength Tottenham Hotspur side at a packed Rodney Parade. A late goal from England star Harry Kane saved the blushes of Spurs but earned Newport a potentially lucrative replay at Wembley. The extraordinary performance by the Exiles marks another step in the progress being made under the leadership of Michael Flynn as his side, for once, justified all the pre-match FA Cup hype. A crowd of 9,846 at Rodney Parade was kept spellbound by the sight of a Newport side holding their own with a team currently sitting in fifth place in the English Premiership.

For the first forty five minutes Newport were the dominant. Tottenham seemed a little rattled by the combative, physicality of the Exiles roared on by a huge noise from the Rodney Parade crowd. Labadie was ruling the roost in midfield and Spurs seemed unable to copy with the diagonal balls behind the defence and long throw ins that are a feature of Newport's play. An early chance for Nouble was blasted over the new temporary setting of the North Stand but Newport kept battling away and harrying their illustrious opponents into mistakes. If anything they were the more fluent team. Spurs did not create a chance until Kane grazed the outside the post on thirty minutes. No one expected what was to happen next. A long throw in by Tozer was headed away by the Spurs defence, Labadie with three first time touches crossed the ball in but it was deflected out to Wilmott. His pinpoint cross evaded Trippier to be met by Padraig Amond's perfect header at the far post. On 39 minutes Newport were in dreamland. Other goal mouth incidents followed with a shot parried away from Amond at the near post but as referee Roger East blew his whistle the score-line took on an unexpected appearance. Under the Hazell Stand there was a mix of disbelief and infectious excitement as fans reflected on a thrilling 45 minutes as they queued for a half time beer or for the loo.

The second half started with a more dynamic approach from Spurs. Inevitably Newport sat back trying to guard their lead but the Londoners only managed one scoring opportunity as Kane headed over from near range. With Dele Ali joining the fray on 70 minutes Spurs rolled out most of their big guns but were failing to make an impression - despite better movement and passing they were repelled by stout defending from the men in Amber and Black with the back four (Pipe, White, Demetriou and Butler) increasingly prominent. The crowd were increasingly beginning to believe this could be the most almighty of upsets as the minutes ticked by. Then the moment of rescue for Tottenham, a corner was flicked across the face of goal and prowler Harry Kane, kept onside by Pipe marking the near post, was on hand to score. With eight minutes to go thoughts turned from a giant-killing victory to the potential for a money spinning replay at Wembley. Spurs did not threaten and although County had a late flurry including a corner they held on for an extraordinary draw and the best possible outcome for the club - a replay at the home of football.

Images from the FA Cup match

REACTION TO NEWPORT'S AMAZING RESULT

“Sometimes I miss this type of atmosphere and football,” the Spurs manager said, “because that is the reality of football and how I feel about it. That was pure passion. The team didn’t really show that they wanted to go to the next stage of the FA Cup. That is the really disappointing aspect. Because the theory is to win things and win trophies. It is easy to talk about that but I think we miss a massive opportunity today to show that we really want to win some trophies. I hope that helps us to realise we have to fight. I hear a lot that the FA Cup is magic. This was a Premier League team and a League Two team, and I don’t see too much difference.” Mauricio Pottechino
"I'm gutted because we conceded so late in the game. But they are a quality side and in the second half we couldn't really get at them. Wembley is something else for the club to look forward to. We were nearly there, we could taste it but we switched off [for] one minute."
Michael Flynn
"Newport-Spurs best game I've been to this season. Listening to Pottechino talk about the atmosphere afterwards, sounds like he agreed" Oliver Holt, Chief Sports Writer, Mail on Sunday
"#FACup has suffered many dents in recent years but scenes @NewportCounty show it still matters. Newport fans, players, management, staff cared passionately about the Cup & seized chance in spotlight. Fought hard, deserved replay & memorable trip to Wembley beckons - plus pay-day" Henry Winter Chief Football Writer at the Times
"Bloody marvellous FA Cup tie at Rodney Parade: muddy pitch, panicked PL footballers & a home crowd that loves its team. Lad in front of pressbox called his mum as soon as Newport goal went in so she could hear the celebrations." Sam Wallace, Chief Football Writer, the Independent
"Congratulations @newportcounty, fantastic performance" - Jess Morden MP
"Newport the magnificent, you were the better team! Wembley is our lucky venue. Just one more miracle." - Paul Flynn MP
"Congrats to all our friends @NewportCounty, all of us @dragonsrugby are thrilled for you...You have put my old man on cloud 9 " - David Buttress, Dragons Chief Exec
"@NewportCounty, you were brilliant. Enjoy your trip to @WEmbleySTadium you deserve it." Alan Shearer, tv pundit, Premier League legend
"Thank you for all the messages. Cannot believe we are going to Wembley, it's only what we deserved.." Joss Labadie, Newport skipper

COUNTY EDGE OUT CRAWLEY AS GOOD FORM CONTINUES

Jan 19 - Newport County edged past Crawley Town and into the play-off places in front of a crowd of 5,741 at Rodney Parade.
Newport hit the bar twice in the first half through Robbie Willmott and Padraig Amond and it was Amond who opened the scoring after 40 minutes. Mickey Demetriou made it 2-0 from the penalty spot but Jimmy Smith pulled one back for Crawley after the restart with a deflected effort. Despite late Crawley pressure County held on.

EXILES CLOSE IN ON PLAY OFF PLACES

Jan 13 - Just to prove their minds are still on Football League promotion, Newport County beat Grimsby Town 2-1 to close to within two points of the play off places. The Exiles were the better side for most of the match but nearly threw it away at the end. Goals from Wilmott (a fine strike from outside the box) and Nouble (a deflected shot) either side of the break gave them a comfortable lead. However, Jamille Matt scored with ten minutes to go to make a nervous conclusion to the game. The Grimsby forward was sent off for elbowing Mickey Demetriou in the 90th minute. County and their 99 travelling fans weathered eight minutes of injury time to take the spoils.

COUNTY SET TO FACE SPURS IN FA CUP DREAM TIE

Jan 10 - Newport County will face Premier League giants Tottenham Hotspur at home in the next round of the FA Cup after their victory over Leeds United. The tie is scheduled to take place between January 26 and 29. This is the first time County have featured in the fourth round since 1979. They have played Spurs twice in the Cup before.

24 Jan 1959	Tottenham Hotspur v Newport County		4-1	FA Cup
09 Jan 1960	Newport County v Tottenham Hotspur		0-4	FA Cup

COUNTY SEND LEEDS OUT IN CUP SHOCK

Jan 8 - Newport County dumped sixth placed Championship side Leeds United out of the FA Cup yesterday thanks to Shawn McCoulsky's late header in a rousing finish at Rodney Parade. McCoulsky's winner in the 89th minute gave dominant County a 2-1 lead after they finished the match strongly. Conor Shaughnessy's own goal drew them level with 15 minutes remaining after Gaetano Berardi's deflected ninth-minute opener for the visitors.
Leeds player Samuel Saiz was sent off in time added on amidst the Exiles' goal celebration. He was later banned for six matches for spitting on County star Robbie Wilmott.

COUNTY WIN TO STAY IN TOUCH

Jan 2 - A fine drive from Robbie Wilmott gave Newport victory over play-off hopefuls Exeter to keep them within striking distance of their opponents. Paraig Amond's header put the hosts in front early on but Jason Stockley replied to level after the break. Willmott's 66th-minute woner strike put the Exiles back in front and they held on for victory.
Newport boss Mike Flynn told BBC Sport Wales: "It was an outstanding performance form the boys, especially the first half where we just completely dominated.

PATCHED UP COUNTY SECURE POINT

Dec 30 - A below strength Newport County side secured a point at Cheltenham in front of a large travelling contingent of (916) fans. Mohamed Eisa's 10th goal of the season salvaged a point for Cheltenham after 77 minutes. Padraig Amond had put Exiles ahead with a header over Scott Flinders in the 55th minute.

LABADIE OFF AS COUNTY FAIL TO FIRE AT WYCOMBE

Dec 26 - Joss Labadie was sent off as Newport County failed to make an impact at Wycombe. His dismissal came late on as goals from veterans Nathan Tyson and Adebayo Akinfenwa earned Wycombe a sixth-straight home win. Tyson slotted the Chairboys, who climbed to fourth with this victory, in front to cap a fine team move. And, after Joss Labadie hit the bar for the Exiles, Akinfenwa sealed the points for the hosts when he took the ball on his chest and volleyed home.

“I thought it was a disgusting decision,” said Flynn of Labadie’s dismissal by maverick referee Charles Breakspear. He told Wales Online “It was absolutely awful. I spoke to the referee and said ‘I know what you’re going to say, you’re going to tell me it’s persistent fouling’ but he said no, which is even more bizarre. He said Labadie looked at him intentionally and fouled him intentionally. The referee hasn’t cost us the game, let’s be clear about that, but he has given some scandalous decisions.”

EXILES FIGHT FOR DRAW

Dec 23 - Newport County fought out a goalless draw with play off rivals Lincoln City at Rodney Parade this afternoon. The crucial point in a close game came after 53 minutes when Newport defender Matt O'Brien was sent off for a bad tackle on Lincoln centre forward Matt Green. Despite this the Exiles held on a for a vital point to start their Christmas campaign.

COUNTY TO CLOSE PART OF HAZELL TERRACE FOLLOWING BAD BEHAVIOUR BY FANS

Dec 22 - Newport County are closing part of the Hazell Terrace for their next two home games after "objects" were thrown at the technical areas during the 3-3 draw with Carlisle United. Parts of the Terrace will be off limits for supporters for games against Lincoln tomorrow and Exeter on January 1. They say the FA are investigating the incident which happened during the Blues' visit on December 9. In a statement, Newport said: "Regrettably Newport County AFC will be closing part of the Hazell Terrace for the next two EFL League Two home matches against Lincoln City and Exeter City. The decision to close the area of the terrace directly behind the dugouts has been taken following an incident at the last home match against Carlisle United which saw objects thrown into the technical areas."

ONE DAY OF GENERAL SALES - 5288 TICKETS SOLD!

Dec 17 - After one day of general sales 5288 tickets have now been sold for Newport County's clash with Leeds United with rumours rife that tickets are being picked up in the home end by fans of the Yorkshire team.

LAST KICK SINKS CAMBRIDGE

Dec 16 - Newport captain Joss Labadie scored a bizarre goal at the death to earn a League Two win at Cambridge. Home goalkeeper David Forde's panicked clearance kick rebounded off Labadie's chest and ballooned into the goal. Shawn McCoulsky broke the deadlock as the opening period drew to a close, pouncing on a rebound to score. Cambridge took control after the break and were rewarded as Brown hammered in a left-foot shot to level, but Labadie's winner undid their work.

EXILES SUPPORT CITY FOOD BANK

Dec 15 - This afternoon, Operational Chairman Gavin Foxall, Manager Michael Flynn, and First Team players Lamar Reynolds, Mark O'Brien, Aaron Williams, and Robbie Willmott visited Stow Park Church Centre taking with them tins of food, bags of toiletries, and 25 pairs of tickets to Newport County AFC vs Crawley Town. The visit came about after County Season Ticket Holder Jim Drewett contacted the Club to highlight the need for donations to Newport food banks. The Club, recognising the importance of giving back to and supporting its local community, agreed to help and - with Jim's help - decided to set up a visit to Stow Park Church Centre to donate some much needed food and toiletries.
The Club also donated 50 match tickets to the Community Centre in the hope that someone's Christmas might be made a little more special!
Following on from the visit, the Club is also really pleased to be working with local food banks all around Newport in a ticket promotion for our match vs Crawley Town in the new year. The promotion will mean supporters of both Newport County AFC and Crawley Town are able to purchase tickets at a discounted rate by donating to the local food banks.

FIXTURE CHANGES

Dec 15 - The League Two home clash with Morecambe, which was scheduled for January 6, has now been moved to Tuesday, January 23 (kick-off 7.45pm). In addition, the home match against Crawley Town has been moved from Saturday, January 20, to Friday, January 19, (kick-off 7.45pm).

DOLAN STARS AS COUNTY SHARE SIX WITH CARLISLE

Dec 10 - Matt Dolan starred as Newport and Carlisle fought out a 3-all draw at Rodney Parade. The midfielder scored two fine free-kicks to earn a point for Newport in an entertaining second half. The Exiles were ahead at half time after Shawn McCoulsky's lob over goalkeeper. But Carlisle were ahead within six minutes of the restart as Luke Joyce scored and then Kelvin Etuhu added a second. But then Dolan pulled Newport level then Tom Miller had headed past Day to put Carlisle ahead. But Dolan had the final say.

COUNTY TO FACE LEEDS AGAIN

Dec 7 - Newport face Leeds in the FA Cup third round, their second outing against the Yorkshire side. The game is scheduled for January 7 at 12 noon, with tv coverage planned. Leeds have received 1300 tickets for the trip, travelling fans to Rodney Parade will be based in both the Purevans.com Away Stand and the Bisley Stand, which is open to away fans with a large expected contingent.

LABADIE DOUBLE SENDS COUNTY THROUGH

Dec 3 - A double by Joss Labadie sent Newport County through to the third round FA Cup Draw at the expense of Cambridge United. The Exiles skipper volleyed home after two minutes. He was on hand eight minutes before time to strike home Frank Nouble's cross. This is the Exiles' second appearance in the third round in 32 years and holds out the promise of a lucrative tie against higher league opposition in the first week of January.

TOZER BRINGS COUNTY FIRST LEAGUE WIN SINCE OCTOBER 14

Nov 26 - Ben Tozer scored to give Newport County a win at Swindon in front of 900 travellin fans. The defender headed home Matty Dolan's corner, giving the Exiles their first win since October 14. Swindon fall out of the play-off places to eighth, two points above Newport. Joss Labadie picked up his fifth yellow card of the season, ruling the Newport captain out of next weekend's FA Cup second-round tie with Cambridge United.

BARNET LATE GOALS SEAL SNATCH AND GRAB RAID AT RP

Nov 22 - Newport's dreadful recent form at Rodney Parade was made complete with a defeat to lowly Barnet by two goals to one. Newport dominated the first half and took the lead after the interval thanks to Ben White. But with two minutes left, John Akinde headed in from Jamal Campbell-Ryce's cross to bring Barnet level. Then in added time Shaquile Coulthirst converted another Campbell-Ryce cross to end the visitors' run of 14 games without a win in all competitions to the delight of their 64 travelling supporters!

COUNTY FOILED BY LATE EQUALISER

Nov 18 - Newport County were foiled by a late equaliser at Accrington Stanley. Although the home side had marginally the better of the play Newport were solid with goalkeeper Joe Day. From a training ground corner routine striker Frank Nouble put them ahead. However, Mallik Wilks equalised two minutes before the end to give Stanley a precious point.
Newport County boss Mike Flynn told BBC Sport Wales: "It was close to the perfect away performance, for 87 minutes they didn't look like scoring."

EXILES THROW AWAY LEAD

Nov 11 - Newport County conceded the lead late on in their Friday night clash with Port Vale Midfielder Matty Dolan's scored after 54 minutes with a fine strike before Vale sub Anton Forrester's scored with 10 minutes to go. Mike Flynn's side remain eighth while Vale move up to 20th. Newport manager Mike Flynn told BBC Radio Wales: "I'm frustrated, that's two points thrown away. We were the better team without being at our best and we've just given them one of the softest goals I've seen."

Newport County will face Cambridge United in the FA Cup second round at home on Sunday December 3 at 2pm.

COUNTY MARCH THROUGH TO SECOND ROUND

Nov 5 - Newport County marched confidently into the second round after disposing of Walsall in front of the tv cameras at Rodney Parade last night. The League One side fell behind thanks to a deflected effort from industrious striker Frank Nouble. Goal machine Shawn McCoulsky doubled the advantage just 25 seconds after the start of the second half. Saddlers' substitute Amadou Bakayoko's 78th-minute header proved to be a consolation for the visitors. The draw for the second round takes place tomorrow evening.
Newport manager Mike Flynn told BBC Sport Wales: "It was an outstanding, disciplined performance. I am a little bit disappointed with the goal we conceded. If we cut out those little things, we will be a very good team. It was almost a perfect defensive display, we knew they would have a lot of the ball."

10 MAN EXILES FALL TO CLINICAL NOTTS COUNTY

Oct 28 - A red card for Dan Butler proved the turning point as Newport County fell to top of the table Notts county. The Exiles were holding their own until Butler was sent off for elbowing an opponent. Within minutes Jorge Grant put them ahead. Within ten minutes of the interval they had added two more, from Shola Amoebi and a second from Grant as County struggled to make up for the loss of Butler.

BOARD UPHEAVAL AT RODNEY PARADE

Oct 26 - Newport County director Charlie Hopkins has resigned from the board, citing "governance" issues and saying he could not work with current directors Gavin Foxall, Shaun Johnson and Mark Crook. Coach Michael Flynn said he was "flabbergasted" by Hopkins' letter of resignation and had sent his own email to the board.

MCLOUSKY MAKES IT THREE IN THREE TO SAVE COUNTY

Oct 21 - Substitute Shawn McCoulsky made it three in three games as he rescued a point for Newport County against Mansfield Town. Storm Brian created very testing conditions for players and for watching spectators but it was an entertaining game and a thrilling second half effort from County spurred on by subs Rigge and McClousky. Mansfield had led at half-time thanks to Danny Rose, who reacted fastest when the ball broke to him after Kane Hemmings' header was blocked. County were focussed on set pieces and were unlucky not to get a goal but McCoulsky continued his scoring run when he volleyed Ben Tozer's long throw into the corner from 10 yards out.

FA CUP TITLE TO BE TELEVISED

Oct 20 - The FA Cup First Round tie between Newport County and Walsall will be televised live on Welsh-language channel S4C.It has also been confirmed that the match has been scheduled to take place at Rodney Parade at 5.15pm on Saturday, 4th November.

Newport have completed the signing of Paul Hayes after manager Mike Flynn contacted the veteran forward on LinkedIn.
The 34-year-old left Wycombe Wanderers by mutual consent in August following three years at the club and had since taken to advertising his services on the social media networking site. But Hayes, who has scored 145 goals in nearly 600 league and cup appearances, still admitted his surprise at the way his move came about.

COUNTY FOILED BY COLCHESTER SNATCH AND GRAB RAID

Oct 17 - Newport County fell to a first League Two home defeat since March as two second-half goals gave Colchester United victory at Rodney Parade. A defensive error saw Colchester attack and former Newport favourite Ryan Jackson put the visitors ahead after 72 minutes. Four minutes later French striker Mikael Mandron touched home a Sean Murray free-kick for the second. Newport substitute Shawn McCoulsky glanced in with four minutes to go but the Exiles lost their 10-match unbeaten home run in League Two.

MAJESTIC COUNTY HAMMER FOREST GREEN

Oct 14 - Newport County disposed of Forest Green 4-0 in front of 915 travelling fans at Forest Green. The Exiles outplayed their opponents. Padraig Amond struck twice bringing his season's total to five. The striker claimed his first from Scott Bennett's flick-on, before tapping in after Frank Nouble's shot was well saved by Sam Russell. Bennett added a third goal when Ben Tozer's long throw in fell kindly. Sub Shawn McClousky added a late header from Dan Butler's cross, a result that took County in to the play off places and dropped Rovers into the bottom two.

Newport County went down 2-1 in their midweek EFL Trophy clash with Swansea under 21s. Port Vale’s League Two game at Newport County has been moved forward a day to Friday November 10 (7.45pm) to avoid a clash with a rugby international the following day. The Valiants were due to be at Newport on Saturday November 11 but that clashes with the international between Wales and Australia in Cardiff. So, Vale and the Exiles have agreed to move the game and the fixture switch has also been approved by the Football League.

COUNTY OUTPLAY YEOVIL IN COMFORTABLE VICTORY

Oct 7 - Newport County outplayed Yeovil Town to complete a convincing 2-0 victory and confirm their outstanding home form in the 2017/18 campaign. The Exiles have conceded one goal in five home games to date. Josh Labadie scooping a shot over from six yards before Padraig Amond headed home a corner just before half-time. Man of the match Labadie hit the cross bar before he finally headed home a corner on 55 minutes. Yeovil rarely threatened but Olufela Olomola hit the post after 88 minutes. The crowd was an impressive 3,689 reflecting the slight increase in attendances at Rodney Parade thus far. Newport boss Mike Flynn told BBC Radio Wales: "The boys were outstanding, they played some good football. They moved the ball around well, defended well and closed down well and the only disappointment was that we did not score more goals."

COUNTY CHAIRMAN RESIGNS

Oct 1 - Newport County Chairman Malcolm Temple has resigned. The club have issued a statement "Newport County AFC wishes to inform its Owners and Shareholders that the current Chairman of Newport County AFC Supporters’ Trust Malcolm Temple has submitted his resignation to the Board which was accepted at last night’s Board Meeting.

The resignation covers Malcolm’s role as both Chairman of the Supporters Trust and as a Director of Newport County AFC. The Directors wish to take the opportunity to thank Malcolm for his time and work as Chairman in recent years which has seen him help with the procurement of the Club by the Trust. "

LUTON BEAT COUNTY WITH FIRST HALF BLITZ

Oct 1 - Luton put in a powerful first half performance to see off Newport County. Danny Hylton's double Alan Sheehan's left-footed free kick gave the Hatters a three goal margin after thirty five minutes. Hylton struck from close range before adding his second from the penalty spot after Ben Tozer's handball. Newport captain Joss Labadie's scored a second half volley to make it 3-1 in a much improved second half display.

HEADED BRACE BRINGS VICTORY FOR EXILES

Sep 28 - Two headed goals by defender Mickey Demetriou saw Newport County back into the promotion play offs as they won at Crawley Town in League Two. The goals came from set pieces in the 40th and 51st minute. Crawley's Mark Connolly opened the scoring on the half hour for the home side.

AMOND POACHES GOAL TO SEAL VICTORY

Sep 24 - A poachers goal on 63 minutes from Padraig Amond gave Newport a deserved win over Grimsby having dominated the match at Rodney Parade. The Exiles had numerous attempts on goal with shots from Amond and Labadie cleared off the line. A late rally from Grimsby saw Diallang Jaiyesimi's shot saved by Joe Day. County go eighth.

FLYNN LAMBASTS TEAM FOR 'SPINELESS' PERFORMANCE

Sep 17 - "It was very disappointing. That's not a performance I like to be associated with. It was gutless, it was spineless and I've told the players that. I'm the first one to give them credit, but today it was a terrible, terrible performance." Michael Flynn's words to BBC Wales at the conclusion of Newport's defeat by 2-1 at Morecambe. Flynn watched as County's bete noire Kevin Ellison produced two goals to beat the Exiles. Kevin Ellison as their familiar nemesis again proved their downfall. He put the Shrimps in front after 34 minutes although Scott Bennett swiftly equalised for the Port. But with 10 minutes to play it was Ellison who deflected home Adam Campbell's shot. County have dropped to ninth in the table.

COUNTY EDGE OUT CHELTENHAM IN MONSOON

Sep 14 - Newport produced the only goal in a match played in relentless heavy rain at Rodney Parade. Padraig Amond's flicked in Matty Dolan's corner in a first half dominated by County. However, Cheltenham almost levelled when Kyle Storer's header was cleared off the line with Joe Day beaten. Day was also in action late in the game to deny the same player.

STALEMATE AT RODNEY PARADE

Sep 10 - Newport and Wycombe played out a frustrating stalemate at Rodney Parade yesterday. The Exiles had a couple of good chances through Padraig Amond but both goalkeepers were on fine form in front of 3752 fans. Newport had 14 shots on goal, five were on target. Mike Flynn told the BBC "I am frustrated because in the first half we had enough chances to win three football matches. We started brightly in the second half as well, but then Wycombe were by far the better team and pinned us in. By the end, we are probably grateful that we didn't lose. We kept a clean sheet and there are some positives... we are moving in the right direction."

COUNTY GO DOWN AT EXETER

Sep 3 - Newport County's unbeaten League start to the season came to an end at League leaders Exeter. The Exiles were dominant in the first half and had a goal disallowed but Lee Holmes' fine strike half way through the second half was all that separated them. Padraig Amond had several chances for Newport before Exeter's Jake Taylor had opportunities of his own. Midfielder Holmes cut in from the right and curled a fine shot into the bottom corner with 57 minutes played at St James Park.

Newport County manager Mike Flynn told BBC Radio Wales: "It was a massive decision by the referee (John Brooks) in the first half to disallow a goal, there was nothing wrong with it. Then we go and gift them a goal near enough by not putting the ball out of play, so I'm really frustrated. We took the game to them today and I just feel we missed too many chances first half."

NOUBLE HAT-TRICK MARKS EXILES HOMECOMING

Aug 26 - Newport County turned in a superb second half performance to beat Chesterfield by four goals to one. The homecoming to Rodney Parade was marked by a fantastic hat trick for forward Frank Nouble.

Nouble started his goal surge with a stunning thirty metre strike just before the hour. Within twelve minutes he had completed his hat trick with two headed goals and Chesterfield were out of the game. The period of play was in stark contrast to a first half in which Chesterfield were the better team and took a deserved lead after Scott Wiseman capitalised on a Nouble stumble to send a sharp cross through for Chris O'Grady to score.

Manager Mike Flynn kept Newport in the changing rooms at half time as the Chesterfield team waited to start the second half clearly to get the message across to his players. They responded in kind in front of a good crowd. To cap it all Nouble set up strike partner and debutant Padraig Amond for his first goal on 82 minutes.

Flynn commented to BBC Wales "We started slowly but the boys responded brilliantly, we had a chat at half-time - they were causing us a few problems... so we matched them up and we were outstanding then. As afternoons go it was brilliant, the only downside was one of their players had an injury and it looked a bad one [Chesterfield defender Bradley Barry was taken off on a stretcher after 22 minutes]. I hope he's okay."

County are second, two points behind next week's opponents, Exeter

1200 SEASON TICKETS FOR EXILES

Aug 26 - Newport start their season at home with over 1200 season ticket holders according to latest information - a 67 per cent increase on last season. They face Chesterfield on the new Rodney Parade surface this afternoon.

COUNTY SIGN POOLS STRIKER

Aug 23 - Newport County have signed Hartlepool United striker Padraig Amond tonight for an undisclosed fee. The striker has scored 45 goals in 90 League Two games and will face Chesterfield on Saturday.

NEWPORT FALL TO LEEDS BUT PLAYERS AND FANS GAIN PLAUDITS

Aug 23 - 631 fans and a hard working, attacking team won Newport enormous credit at Leeds before succumbing to the heavy armoury of their Championship opponents. County came out all guns blazing and thoroughly deserved their lead on 33 minutes when Josh Labadie's shot was parried in to his own net by Leeds keeper Rob Green. A brace of goals from Kemar Roofe either side of half time turned the game before he added a third decisive goal with a 65th minute bicycle kick. Saiz and Veira made it 5-1 with the game won.

EXILES WIN AT RICOH

Aug 19 - Newport County beat unbeaten Coventry City to secure their first win of the season. On their first ever visit to the Ricoh Arena, a second half goal from Reece Cole proved enough for Mike Flynn's side. On-loan Brentford midfielder Cole's speculative effort was spilled by Coventry goalkeeper Liam O'Brien as the hosts conceded for the first time this season after successive wins. 909 away fans watched the game.

COUNTY FAIL TO CAPITALISE AGAINST DEPLETED OPPONENTS

Aug 13 - Michael Flynn expressed his frustration as Newport failed to sink 10 man Crewe yesterday . Frank Nouble put Newport ahead when he tapped in after Joss Labadie's shot was saved by Crewe goalkeeper Ben Garratt.
Perry Ng earned a second yellow for a dangerous tackle. But a minute after the dismissal Crewe got themselves back on level terms, when Chris Dagnall converted George Cooper's low cross from the byline.
County manager Flynn told BBC Wales Sport: "It was very frustrating... we created enough chances to win two or three matches, but also weren't very switched on with the counter-attack against us.

COUNTY TO FACE LEEDS AFTER FINE WIN AT SOUTHEND

Aug 10 - Newport County will face Leeds United at Elland Road in the next round of the EFL Cup after a fine win at Roots Hall. Shawn McCoulsky's brace gave the Exiles a shock EFL Cup first round win over League One side Southend United in front of 130 travelling fans. The summer loan signing from Bristol City's goals came in six second-half minutes. County will receive 45 per cent of the net gate takings, Leeds had a crowd of 15,000 for their opening round fixture against Port Vale.

The only meaningful fixture between Leeds and Newport was on 8 January 1949 when the Ironsides won a Cup tie at Elland Road by 3-1. It even led to Harry Williams a County player transferring to Leeds later that year. This is from the 'Mighty Leeds' website "He first came to the attention of Leeds United when he roasted them in an FA Cup-tie as a Newport player in January 1949. The Welsh minnows pulled off a shock 3-1 win at Elland Road, inspired by Williams, who had been up in the early hours of the day to complete his milkround before travelling to Leeds. Major Buckley paid £12,000 for him in July 1949 which was quite a high fee at the time."

PROMISING BRENTFORD YOUNGSTER AGREES EXILES LOAN DEAL

Aug 9 - Promising Brentford player Reece Cole has signed a loan deal with County. The 19-year old midfielder has learned his craft came through Brentford’s academy and signed a pro-deal in 2016. In 2017, after impressing in Brentford’s B Team getting 6 goals in 24 appearances, he got his place in Brentford’s first team squad and made his debut in the team’s victory over Nottingham Forest. In April 2017, he signed a three-year extension keeping him at the club until 2020.
Reece hopes his loan move will allow him to get “more league football under my belt”.
Reece said “The gaffer really sold Newport County AFC to me. He said he was going to be playing youth and there's obviously a few experienced pro's in here as well so hopefully it will be a good mixture."

DRAMATIC COMEBACK SEALS POINT AT STEVENAGE

Aug 7 - Newport County started the League Two season where they ended the last with a last gasp goal, this time to seal a point in a dramatic 3-3 draw at Stevenage. The Exiles scored twice in the final 15 minutes from 3-1 down, with sub Shawn McCoulsky equalising in the fifth minute of injury time. The hosts held the advantage when Tom Pett scored, but Frank Nouble levelled.
Dale Gorman's penalty and a goal from Danny Newton put Stevenage in charge, but Mickey Demetriou gave the Exiles late hope with a stunning 25-yard strike before McCoulsky's late goal.

In addition to negotiating possible additions to the squad Justin has also been finalising pre-season with the remaining dates scheduled for fixtures due to be confirmed early next week.