COUNTY TO PLAY AWAY TO ALLOW PITCH WORKS
Jun 15 - Newport County will only play away
games in the first three weeks of the new football season. Rodney
Parade, the Exiles' home that they share with rugby sides Dragons and
Newport RFC, is having a new Desso pitch installed after the Welsh Rugby
Union takeover of Rodney Parade. The Football League [EFL] has agreed to
postpone home games until 26 August.
The schedule will be announced on 21 June. Clubs can reverse fixtures to
face Newport, or opt for postponements. The EFL seasons begins on the
weekend of 4-6 August. County's League Cup game against Southend will
take place in Essex on August 8.
DOLAN SIGNS FOR EXILES
June 9 - Newport have signed Yeovil midfielder
Matty Dolan on a free transfer, following the expiration of his
contract. The 24-year-old, who made 103 appearances for the Glovers
since rejoining the club in 2015, will join fellow League Two outfit
Newport on July 1 after turning down a new deal at Huish Park.
Dolan told the club's official website: "I'm delighted to sign for
County and am really excited for a new challenge ahead. The manager's
(Michael Flynn) enthusiasm and ambition is really exciting and I'm
looking forward to the upcoming season as we look to make it a really
positive one for Newport County."
Newport County goalkeeper James Bittner has
signed a one-year extension to his contract to keep him at Rodney Parade
until June 2018. The 35-year-old arrived before the 2016-17 season
as a player-coach. He has understudied leading goalkeeper Joe Day and
became joint caretaker manager after Graham Westley's departure in
March, 2017. Newport survived in League Two and boss Mike Flynn said
Bittner is "another good pair of eyes on the touchline".
SEASON TICKET SALES ON THE UP
June 4 - Newport County are reporting strong
sales of season tickets despite the difficulty of 2016-17 campaign. The
Exiles state they have over 950 season tickets at the slightly
discounted rate for the new season.
DEMETRIOU SIGNS UP
May 25 - Defender Mickey Demetriou, one of the
heroes of Newport County's unlikely League Two survival, has signed a
two-year contract. Demetriou, 27, scored four goals in the last seven
matches of the season as Newport escaped relegation.
The former Shrewsbury Town and Kidderminster player was named League
Two's player of the month for April. "I'm really happy to get the deal
over the line and I'm looking forward to next season," Demetriou said.
Newport manager Mike Flynn said: "I am delighted to get Mickey's signing
over the line."
Lenell John-Lewis has joined Shrewsbury and
Mitch Rose has signed up with Grimsby.
COUNTY SIGN FIVE MORE
May 20 - Newport County have re-signed two key
players who helped them into the EFL after agreeing deals with David
Pipe and Robbie Willmott. Pipe, 33, a former Wales international,
returns for a third spell with the Exiles after a loan deal last season.
27 year old Willmott, who had taken a job away from football after a
spell in non-league, signed a new two-year deal. Goalkeeper Joe Day and
defender Mark O'Brien, who scored the goal that kept County up, also
signed two year deals. Meanwhile, forward Marlon Jackson has also agreed
a one-year extension, alongside Pipe.
OWEN -EVANS SIGNS TWO YEAR DEAL
May 14 - Newport County midfielder Tom
Owen-Evans has signed a new two-year deal to remain at Rodney Parade.
The 20-year old was a key component of the side that secured survival in
League Two despite being 11 points adrift with 12 games remaining.
"I am delighted that Tom has extended his stay with us. Tom has really
come of age over the course of the season," manager Mike Flynn said.
"If he continues to work hard, he will have a very good future."
Owen-Evans believes the Exiles are set for a good 2017-18 season after
confirming Flynn's appointment. "I am delighted to sign for another two
years at Newport County and am looking forward to working with gaffer
(Michael Flynn), Lennie (Lawrence) and Hats (Wayne Hatswell)," he said.
"After a great end to the 2016-17 season, I believe we now have the
momentum to have a really successful year next year."
Alex Samuel, the Swansea loanee who impressed in the latter part of the
season, has signed for Stevenage.
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FLYNN APPOINTED AS
PERMANENT MANAGER
Newport County have confirmed Mike Flynn as their manager on a
permanent basis. Flynn, 36, has been rewarded with a two-year
deal after securing League Two survival in a 12-game caretaker
spell. Coach Wayne Hatswell and advisor Lennie Lawrence will
also remain at County, who avoided relegation with victory over
Notts County. "Nothing makes me prouder than to take charge of
my hometown club," Flynn said. The appointment means midfielder
Flynn has all but hung up his boots as a professional player,
despite five League Two appearances this season.
Players released
Flynn has made the decision to
release eight players. Veteran defender Darren Jones revealed
his decision to retire from professional football earlier this
afternoon and he is joined by seven others in leaving Rodney
Parade. Goalkeeper Marcus Beauchamp, defenders Liam Angel, Paul
Bignot and Kieran Parselle, midfielders Finlay Wood and Jack
Compton and striker Tom Meechan are also leaving the club.
Pre-season fixtures
Newport County AFC have announced their first set of pre-season
friendlies. Michael Flynn's first match as permanent manager
will be at Undy on Friday, July 14 (kick-off 7.30pm). On
Saturday, July 15, the Exiles will travel to Swindon Supermarine
(kick-off 3pm). They then go to Chippenham on Tuesday, July 18
(kick-off 7.30pm), and Merthyr Town on Wednesday, July 19
(kick-off 7.30pm).
Flynn's men then take on Tim Harris' Gloucester City at Evesham
United on Saturday, July 22 (kick-off 3pm). |
 |
MAGNIFICENT COUNTY
STAY IN FOOTBALL LEAGUE
May 7 - Newport County pulled off
an astonishing League Two relegation escape as they beat Notts
County 2-1 at Rodney Parade. With Hartlepool ahead against
Doncaster only a win would suffice. In the last minute of normal
time a volley from Mark O'Brien (pictured left) kept Newport up
on a dramatic final day.
Despite being 11 points adrift in March, the Exiles instead
condemned Hartlepool to the drop to the National League.
It was a tense
encounter in front of a sell-out crowd at Rodney Parade, with Jon Stead
shooting wide for the Magpies just five minutes in. The home side opened
the scoring on 32 minutes as Mickey Demetriou fired home a penalty after
Haydn Hollis tripped Lenell John-Lewis in the box. It appeared to be a
soft penalty but County have conceded many themselves this season.
Demetriou, League Two's player of
the month for April, made it four goals in his last seven outings. After
a nervous start to the second half the visitors levelled things when
Jorge Grant prodded home on 61 minutes. As the Hartlepool game switched
from a 1-nil deficit to a 2-1 lead County fans implored their charges
on. Mike Flynn pushed players up in search of a goal and after a fine
cross from David Pipe it was centre half O'Brien who chested the ball
down and fired home to spark scenes of wild celebration.
THE MIRACLE OF RODNEY
PARADE - pictures, analysis here |
COUNTY LOSE BUT STAY AHEAD OF HARTLEPOOL
Apr 30 - Carlisle fought back in a compelling
encounter to rise into the play-off zone as they condemned Newport to a
nerve-jangling final day of the season that will determine whether or
not they survive in the Football League.
Mickey Demetriou's stunning header put the visitors in front. But goals
from Jabo Ibehre and Nicky Adams in three second half minutes helped
Carlisle go from 10th to sixth. Newport stay two points above the drop
after Hartlepool lost at Cheltenham. Newport caretaker boss Mike Flynn
told BBC Radio Wales: "I said a couple of games back we've got six cup
finals. We're down to one and I want to make sure we win so we're not
checking our phones or listening to the crowd on how Hartlepool are
doing. So it's not going to be easy. Notts County have won again today
against a good Blackpool team so it's going to be a tough game."
COUNTY OUT OF BOTTOM TWO AS
RELEGATION BATTLE TAKES AMAZING NEW TURN
Apr 23 - Newport County moved out of the bottom
two after beating Accrington Stanley at Rodney Parade at the same time
as Hartlepool were crashing to 2-0 defeat at home to Barnet. Just after
Ryan Bird headed Newport's only goal in a pulsating second half
performance news came through that John Akinde had scored Barnet's first
goal. Bird headed in after Randall's shot on goal was defelected upwards
by Accrington keeper Rodak. Earlier on in the game the away side had
produced a couple of fine save from County keeper Joe Day. The second
half was a different matter as Newport were firmly on top and with a
fervent crowd behind them there were moments to trouble them from
Stanley. "It's a great three points and I'm over the moon," Mike
Flynn told the BBC"If fingers are crossed and lady luck smiles on us we
could be safe, but all we can do is take care of what we can look after
and we'll see what happens at five o'clock next week." He also played
down the fact that his record since taking over could lead to a
permanent position as manager. "It's a good record, but there's nothing
achieved yet," he said.
EXILES THRASHED BY PROMOTED ARGYLE
Apr 17 - Plymouth Argyle were promoted from
League Two in style as they thrashed Newport 6-1 to add to the Exiles'
relegation worries. Two goals at the end of the first half from Matty
Kennedy and Jake Jervis put the Pilgrims in control before Graham Carey
made the win safe. The promotion party was in full swing before Ryan
Taylor added a fourth and Kennedy a fifth as the Exiles wilted. Jervis
scored Plymouth's sixth before Aaron Williams' consolation strike.
Plymouth's victory keeps alive their hopes of winning the League Two
title. Newport remain one point outside of the relegation zone thanks to
Hartlepool's 2-1 defeat by Leyton Orient, but they have seen their goal
difference take a hit. Next up they face Accrington Stanley at home with
Hartlepool entertaining Barnet.
COUNTY WIN BRINGS OTHER TEAMS WITHIN REACH
Apr 15 - Newport County's recovery under
caretaker manager Mike Flynn continued as Mickey Demetriou's second-half
free-kick saw them beat Yeovil 1-0. in yesterday's fixture at Rodney
Parade. The Exiles remain in the League Two relegation zone, a point
behind Hartlepool with four matches to play. Hartlepool and Cheltenham
are set to play one another as part of their remaining fixtures.
The Exiles were bottom of the table and 11 points adrift of safety when
Flynn took over from Graham Westley in early March. Yeovil stay 20th,
but are now only four points clear of the drop zone. Demetriou fired in
a left-footed free-kick from 20 yards just before the hour as Newport
dominated at Rodney Parade to claim a third consecutive win. Newport
County manager Mike Flynn: "It was a huge effort from the players. I
know I keep saying it but I won't get bored of it they were absolutely
outstanding again today.
COUNTY CLOSE GAP TO THREE WITH FINE WIN
Apr 8 - Newport gave their Sky Bet League Two
survival hopes a huge boost with a narrow 1-0 win at play-off hopefuls
Exeter. The game kicked off 45 minutes late with the Newport team coach
stuck in traffic for four hours, but when the game got under way they
looked anything but troubled by their nightmare journey.
Dan Butler spurned the first chance of the game when he ghosted in
behind Pierce Sweeney and saw his volley well saved by Christy Pym in
the Exeter goal. Alex Samuel could have doubled their lead with an
ambitious shot two minutes later but shot just over the bar.
Hartlepool's draw with Morecambe and Cheltenham's draw away at Wycombe
means the Exiles reduce their five-point deficit from safety to just
three with victory.
COUNTY FIGHT ON WITH BRAVE VICTORY
Apr 1 - Newport County produced a fighting
performance in every sense of the word to hold off Crawley 1-0 at Rodney
Parade. The pitch miraculously recovered from a 1pm downpour and the
Exiles' Mickey Dimetriou's wonder strike after twenty minutes was enough
to record their first home league win since January 28. The win was not
without controversy as Josh Labadie and Crawley's Josh Yorwerth were
sent off for elbowing or fighting one another after 51 minutes. Their
departure left huge gaps in midfield to be exploited. Although County
had the better of the match as they sat back Crawley seized the
initiative and were denied by saves late in the game from Joe Day.
County ended a three-match winless run to leave them five points from
safety.
POMPEY PUSH COUNTY NEARER TO THE EDGE
Mar 26 -
Portsmouth boosted their
automatic promotion hopes with a
win that dents Newport's League
Two survival hopes. A Kyle
Bennett goal just before the
interval and Kal Naismith's
second-half header were enough
for the hosts, despite Alex
Samuel's late goal leading to a
nervy finish. County had a clear
penalty shout mid-way through
the first half ignored by the
referee. Newport County manager
Mike Flynn told BBC Radio Wales:
"We gave ourselves too much to
do, we didn't get going until
2-0 down. In saying that, we
should have had a clear cut
penalty at 0-0 and at places
like this, you need that kind of
luck.
The effort was there, I think if
the game had been ten minutes
longer we would have drawn. We
missed three big chances at the
end. We are in a difficult
situation, but we are still
fighting."
LUTON POINT NOT ENOUGH
Mar 22 -
Relegation-threatened Newport
County closed the gap to safety
by a point in a battling draw
against promotion challengers
Luton Town. at Rodney Parade.
The visitors went into an early
lead as Danny Hylton converted a
penalty after Sid Nelson brought
him down. Sean Rigg scored a
fine goal from a kick off for
the Exiles on 28 minutes and
generally they had the better of
play until Mark O'Brien was sent
off for a second yellow card on
81 minutes. This was not the win
County neded to close the gap on
Cheltenham.
POOL SINK EXILES
Mar 18 - In a frenetic and exciting encounter
Newport put in a huge effort only to fall to another home defeat by 3
goals to 1 against improving Blackpool. Bright Osayi-Samuel's fine
effort put the visitors ahead after twenty minutes as he capitalised on
a defensive error, and Blackpool had chances to extend their lead as
Mark Cullen hit the bar and post. Cullen scored with a highly dubious
penalty. With sixteen minutes to go Alex Samuel scored. He had a late
chance to equalise but his header was tipped over. As County pressed
from a corner with keeper Joe Day up Osayi-Samuel broke to score a late
third for Blackpool. Despite a first loss of caretaker manager Mike
Flynn's reign, Newport stay second from bottom and seven points adrift
of safety. Off the field Gary Bowyer, Blackpool manager, claimed to have
been hit by an object thrown by a County fan. In the Bisley Stand a
large area was cleared as a response team and then NHS paramedics dealt
with a possible heart attack situation.
FLYNN GETS ANOTHER WIN
Mar 15 - Newport County increased their hopes of
avoiding League Two relegation by winning a second straight match under
new boss Michael Flynn. County dominated the first half with Samuel
prominent. The Exiles were 11 points adrift when they sacked boss Graham
Westley but followed up a win over Crewe thanks to Ryan Bird's second
half penalty. County are now seven points from League Two safety and off
the bottom of the table after Bird converted after Alex Whitmore fouled
Alex Samuel.
FLYNN MAKES BEST POSSIBLE START
Mar 12 - Newport caretaker boss, Mike Flynn, had
the perfect start as the bottom club grabbed three points at Crewe. In
the proverbial game of two halves, Callum Cooke fired home on 22 minutes
to put the home side ahead in an opening 45 minutes they dominated.
But after the break, the Exiles roared back with Dan Butler volleying an
equaliser and skipper Joss Labadie stroking home the winner on 88
minutes. The result leaves Newport still nine points from safety.
Newport caretaker boss, Mike Flynn, told BBC Radio Wales: "It's a
massive win. It lifts the whole place. You could see the smiles on the
boys' faces. The fans were exceptional. I said we had to fight and scrap
and in the second-half, the boys were absolutely exceptional. I couldn't
be any happier. I told them at half-time what I told them before the
game, that I believe in them. We've got to put the pressure on other
teams now, we've got to drag them into it."
WESTLEY SACKED
Mar 8 - Newport County have sacked manager
Graham Westley after five months in the post. The club are bottom of
League Two, and 11 points from safety, with just 12 matches remaining
this season. County have won just one of their last 20 fixtures in all
competitions. The 49-year-old Westley is a former manager of
Peterborough and Preston, as well as Stevenage on three occasions. His
assistant Dino Maamria has also left the club, while first-team coach
Michael Flynn has been named caretaker boss until the end of the season.
Wayne Hartwell will assist Flynn.
ORIENT HAMMER COUNTY AS RELEGATION BECKONS
Mar 5 - Leyton Orient dealt Newport County's
survival hopes a potentially fatal blow with a 4-0 hammering at Rodney
Parade. The O's, who have been served with a winding-up order over
unpaid tax bills and will appear in court this month, raced into a
two-goal lead inside 13 minutes as they stopped a three-match losing
run. An expectant home crowd of 3378 saw the Orient take the lead on
eight minutes when Steven Alzate tapped home in his first start from
Josh Koroma's cross and they never looked back after that. Sam Dalby's
pass then split Newport's defence as Koroma scored his maiden O's goal,
before the same duo combined for the third just before the interval.
Koroma sealed the win, and his hat-trick, with a penalty on 64 minutes.
With twelve games to play it will take a miracle for the Exiles to
survive, they are 11 points adrift of the team above the relegation
zone, Notts County.
ANOTHER PENALTY FOILS COUNTY
Feb 26 - Newport County's relegation ecape plan
suffered a further blow as Mansfield came from behind to win. Ryan Bird
scored from close range (his fourth in seven games) to give County an
early lead but Krystian Pearce levelled. After 75 minutes County's
Jaanai Gordon was sent off for a second yellow card before Shaquile
Coulthirst's penalty put Mansfield ahead after Craig Reid handled
COUNTY SECURE ANOTHER POINT
Feb 22 - Newport County's hopes of avoiding
relegation were dealt another blow as they were held to a draw at home
to Morecambe. The Exiles created several first-half chances and led at
the break thanks to Aaron Williams' close-range strike. Michael Rose
scored from a free-kick to bring Morecambe level. The point keeps the
Shrimps 15th in the League Two table, while a sixth draw in eight games
means Newport are still six points adrift of safety.
CAMBRIDGE RECOVERY AND CONTENTIOUS PENALTY END EXILES' RUN
Feb 18 - Cambridge United fought back from 2-0
down to beat Newport with a contentious injury-time penalty. Mitch Rose
was sent off in the incident that saw Joe Day save George Maris' spot
kick, but Mark Roberts bundled home the rebound on 93 minutes.
Two goals from Ryan Bird looked to have given Newport only a second win
in their last 17 League Two fixtures. But substitute Barry Corr pulled
one back for the hosts before skipper Leon Legge equalised.
ANOTHER BORE DRAW FOR EXILES
Feb 14 - Newport County remain bottom of League
Two despite extending their unbeaten run to six games with a goalless
draw at home to Grimsby Town. The visitors' Danny Andrew hit the post
with a free-kick, which was then saved by Joe Day, as the first half
produced chances at both ends. The second half was less eventful, with
very few scoring opportunities.
COUNTY HOLD ON FOR POINT
Feb 9 - Newport County held on for another
valuable point at home to Doncaster Rovers, leaders of League Two. 369
travelling fans from south Yorkshire added to a crackling atmosphere as
the two sides fought it out on a sandy pitch. David Pipe nearly snatched
a lead but his header was saved after two minutes. The Exiles were
clearly not daunted by Donny and had the better of the early exchanges
in an even first half. Butler went closest when a goal bound free kick
was headed away. The second half saw the away side take command Newport
had their moments but it seemed like Doncaster were gaining fluency and
a series of corner attacks were repelled by a battling and well
organised Exiles defence. Joe Day had a momentary lapse punching the
ball towards his own goal but County defiantly kept Doncaster at bay for
a deserved point.
COUNTY FIGHT BACK FOR VITAL DRAW
Feb 4 - The new spirit at Newport County was
evident from their pulsating fight-back at Cheltenham. Backed back 841
travelling fans the Exiles scored a goal in the second minute of extra
time slotted home by Jannai Gordon to gain a vital point and reduce the
margin to safety to three points, County are two adrift of Notts County.
Kyle Wootton looked to have won it for the hosts, turning home after Dan
Holman hit the angle of post and bar just after an hour. Up until then
County had been the better side in a low quality game on a poor pitch.
Newport County boss Graham Westley told BBC
Radio Wales Sport: "I thought we were the better side and the tale of
the tape tells you that. Over the course of the game we deserved to win.
To have lost the game would have been a travesty, and I thought the
players showed they have developed character."
FIRED-UP COUNTY DISPOSE OF POOLS
Jan 29 - In a heartening and vibrant display
Newport put Hartlepool to the sword with a 3-1 victory at Rodney Parade.
County deployed veterans Pipe, Reid and Flynn at various points as they
fought out a fine victory. Hartlepool found it impossible to contend
with the height of Newport at corners and the pinpoint accuracy of Craig
Reid's delivery. Ryan Bird scored one and set up another against his
former club as Newport County. The 29-year-old headed the hosts ahead
from close range early on and had a hand in their second just after the
break. Forward partner Aaron Williams doubled the Exiles' advantage when
he headed Bird's nodded cross home 10 minutes into the second half. Left
back Dan Butler well timed shot from long range added a third while
Padraig Amond fired in a late consolation for the visitors. Now all
roads lead to Cheltenham as the fight-back continues.
COUNTY CLOSE THE GAP WITH DRAW
Jan 21 - Newport County narrowed the gap with
Notts County and Cheltenham with a goalless draw at Barnet. Keeper Joe
Day made some outstanding saves to preserve the precious point for the
Exiles. David Pipe went close for County in a scoreless first half, but
after the break eighth-placed Barnet took control. But Day was their
hero saving brilliantly to foil Simeon Akinola and making an outstanding
double stop to deny Mauro Vilhete. John Akinde fired wide in the dying
minutes as Newport battled to keep the Bees out. Important games against
Hartlepool at home and away at strugglers Cheltenham may decide the
destiny of the Exiles' season.
ROSE JOINS EXILES
Jan 21 - Newport have signed midfielder Mitch
Rose from Sky Bet League Two rivals Mansfield on a short-term deal. The
22-year-old joined the Stags in the summer of 2015 from Ilkeston and
made 60 appearances during that time. "I can confirm to all Mansfield
Town supporters that Mitchell Rose has left us to join Newport County,"
Mansfield manager Steve Evans told his club's official website.
WESTLEY HAILS TURNING POINT
Jan 14 - Newport County ended a run of eight
straight League Two defeats to hold in-form Colchester United to a 1-1
draw. The hosts got off to an ideal start when Josh Sheehan's deflected
shot from just inside the area found its way into the net but could not
build on it.
Chris Porter equalised from the spot after Darren Jones fouled Kurtis
Guthrie and Craig Reid missed a couple of half chances for the hosts
after the break. County remain bottom of League Two, six points adrift.
Newport manager Graham Westley told BBC Radio Wales: "It was a turning
point for us. It was important to stop the rot and it's not easy to do
that. Credit to the team, I thought they were excellent and doing the
things you have to do to win football matches.
GODDEN HAT-TRICK SEALS COUNTY'S FATE
Jan 7 - Newport County were comfortably beaten
by Stevenage 3-1 thanks to a Matty Godden hat-trick. The Stevenage
striker slotted a ninth minute opener before an error by Joe Day trying
to see the ball out for a throw in allowed him in for his second on 42
minutes. He made it three on the hour with yet another penalty conceded
by the Exiles. County had an Aaron Williams goal disallowed on 65
minutes before gaining a consolation with two minutes to go from Dan
Butler.
PIPE RETURNS AS WESTLEY SIGNS UP NEW PLAYERS
Jan 6 - Former captain David Pipe has returned
to Newport on loan from Eastleigh until the end of the season. The 33
year old full back will provide much needed ballast in defence as County
fight for survival.
Newport
County AFC have also signed
defender Sid Nelson from
Millwall on loan until the end
of the season. The 21-year-old
arrives in time to play in the
League Two match against
Stevenage on 7 January. They
have also signed striker Aaron
Williams from Peterborough
United on an 18-month deal and
forward Jaanai Gordon from West
Ham on loan.
EXILES CONCEDE LEAD AT ADAMS PARK
Jan 2 -
Wycombe Wanderers had to fight
back for to win against League
Two's bottom side Newport
County. Despite dominating, with
County goalkeeper Joe Day
producing some fine saves, the
hosts fell behind after a
defensive error gifted Mark
Randall a close-range goal with
an hour gone. Wycombe struck
back with a scissor-kick goal
from Sam Wood to level the
scores and Cowan- Hall lobbed
home on 80 minutes to give the
home side victory and break
County hearts.
COUNTY SWAMPED BY EXETER
Dec 31 - Ollie Watkins' hat-trick helped Exeter
City seize all three points in a comfortable win for Exeter City, which
left Newport County five points adrift at the bottom of League Two.
Watkins struck either side of the break and late on while David Wheeler
tapped home on 53 minutes for the Grecians. Sean Rigg's late header
proved a mere consolation for the struggling Exiles.
WRITING ON THE WALL FOR COUNTY
Dec 26 - Newport County gave up a two goal lead
to Portsmouth at Rodney Parade yesterday in a match that may have a
significant bearing on their battle against relegation. Josh Sheehan
gave Newport the lead on 25 minutes with a brilliant free kick.
Portsmouth responded with a spell of pressure which lead to Bennett
clearing the ball off his own line. Within six minutes of the restart
Sheehan's rebounded strike fell in to the path of the waiting Healey and
victory seemed within the Exiles grasp. But Pompey dominated the latter
stages of the game former Exile Danny Rose got one back before a
questionable penalty was skied over the goal by Kai Naismith. Left back
Enda Stevens brilliantly trapped and volleyed Portsmouth's equaliser
before an 87th minute free kick from Naismith evaded everyone to find
its way in to the net. A fine effort from the Exiles but perhaps the
writing is on the wall for them this season?
CRUEL LUCK FOR COUNTY IN CUP REPLAY
Dec 22 - Plymouth Argyle secured an FA Cup
third-round tie at Liverpool as Graham Carey's extra-time penalty
ensured they won their replay in front of a bumper crowd at Rodney
Parade. Newport were the better of the two teams on an impossible pitch
but could not find a way through. After a goalless 90 minutes, Plymouth
were awarded a penalty in the first half of extra time only for Paul
Garita to hit the post. But Carey made no mistake with Argyle's second
spot kick after Darren Jones' rash challenge on David Goodwillie. Argyle
will be away to Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool on Sunday, 8 January.
COUNTY UNDONE AT CRAWLEY
Dec 17 - Newport County are still the Football
League's bottom club after losing at Crawley. The Exiles trailed to
James Collins' third minute opener, before Joss Ladabie's leveller gave
them hope. However, the hosts took control with two quickfire second
half goals, as Josh Yowerth and Jimmy Smith scored twice in four
minutes. Newport's Josh Sheehan missed a late penalty in a bad-tempered
affair that saw 13 players receive yellow cards.
TIME FOR COUNTY TO MOVE?
Comment - the shambles of December 10
cannot be allowed by any self respecting Football League club to
continue. Newport County need to consider and exit strategy from Rodney
Parade. The vast expenditure on the pitch has not produced the desired
playing surface. The club needs to look at options and the Council must
get involved. A purpose built football stadium in the city centre (on
the Sainsbury's site) could be combined with residential accommodation /
hotels and provide the solution that's needed.
MORECAMBE ABANDONED
Dec 10 - Newport's fixture was abandoned due to
a waterlogged pitch at half time. The County were ahead due to a fine,
slightly deflected Tom Owen-Evans' goal.
STEVENAGE HAVE EDGE OVER EXILES
Dec 6 -
Stevenage moved to within a
point of the League Two play-off
places after winning away
against Newport County, who
remain bottom of the table. The
visitors took an early lead when
Newport defender Darren Jones
turned the ball into his own
net. Stevenage doubled their
advantage before half-time as
Tom Pett headed in from close
range.
DEFENCE AND DAY FOIL GREEN ARMY
Dec 3 - Ten-man Newport put in a disciplined
defensive performance to earn a deserved FA Cup second round replay
against Plymouth. Newport were reduced to 10 men in the first half when
Sean Rigg was shown a red card for a challenge on Jake Jervis. Connor
Smith should have scored for Plymouth but he was denied by Joe Day.
Plymouth found it hard to break down Newport and Day saved from Jervis
late in the game.
PENALTY MISS PROVES VITAL FOR COUNTY
Nov 26 -
Newport lost at Blackpool after
Sean Rigg's penalty miss proved
vital. The hosts led after four
minutes when Brad Potts fired
home from close range after Jack
Payne's cross. However, Newport
hit back before the break
through Rhys Healey. Blackpool
then survived when Sean Rigg saw
his penalty on the hour mark
saved by Sam Slocombe.
Jack
Payne then fired the hosts back
in front before Vassell made it
safe and Kelvin Mellor added a
late fourth. Newport County
manager Graham Westley told BBC
Wales Sport: "Football is a
90-minute game. For the last
half-hour, after we missed the
penalty, we saw a team that was
a bit unbalanced. We were
stretched and strained and
lacking ingredients against a
very experienced Blackpool side
which has a lot of quality. They
exposed us in that last 30
minutes."
EXILES FINE RUN ENDS
Nov 23 - A
late Sido Jombati free-kick
ensured Wycombe ended Newport's
seven-game unbeaten run.
Jombati's wonderful strike from
just outside the box pushed the
Blues to within a point of the
League Two play-off places,
while County dropped back into
the bottom two. Newport
dominated large spells of the
game but it was Wycombe who
snatched the three points late
on.
STUNNING WIN AT NOTTS COUNTY
Nov 20 -
Newport County lifted themselves
off the bottom of the League Two
table with a comfortable win
against Notts County. The Exiles
won a penalty when Richard Duffy
fouled Rhys Healey and Sean Rigg
scored on the rebound after
Notts keeper Adam Collin saved
his spot-kick. Healey drove from
long range to double Newport's
lead but was disallowed a second
goal for a foul after the break.
Swansea
loanee Josh Sheehan scored his
fifth goal in six games with a
25-yard volley as the visitors
sealed a fine win.
COUNTY PUT ALFRETON OUT AFTER EXTRA TIME
Nov 17 -
Newport County survived a
comeback from non-league
Alfreton Town as they won in
extra time to seal their place
in the FA Cup second-round. Rhys
Healey curled home from the edge
of the box to give the hosts the
lead with just over 20 minutes
remaining. Adam Priestley headed
an equaliser after 74 minutes to
force extra time. In afters
Jordan Green bundled home, Josh
Sheehan tapped in from close
range and then to cap it all
Jazzi Barnum-Bobb scored an
amazing solo goal as the Exiles
went through.
NEWPORT END CARLISLE'S UNBEATEN RUN
Nov 13 - Newport County emphatically ended
Carlisle's unbeaten run with a fantastic 2-0 win at Rodney Parade
yesterday. They were given the fillip of an early goal after a weak
defensive clearance to Josh Sheehan who slotted home beautifully after
two minutes. Newport continued to out-play their more exalted opponents
for most of the first half but were unable to find a second goal.
Carlisle came out strongly in the second half determined to find a way
through County's defence but with fifteen minutes to go a break out from
Butler led to a clinical finish from Rhys Healey, Carlisle's travelling
333 fans were stunned and as the game concluded the Exiles seemed the
stronger team.
NEW PLAYERS SHINE AS COUNTY NET £10K
Nov 9 - Newport County's new players shone as
the Exiles beat Wimbledon 2-0 in the Checkatrade Football League Trophy.
Midfielder Jack Jebb and forward Josh O'Hanlon featured prominently at a
deserted Rodney Parade.
Captain Scot Bennett opened the
scoring for the Exiles after
five minutes, netting from close
range following a free-kick. The
second half was delayed when
referee Andy Davies had to be
replaced after he sustained an
injury, there was a qualified
replacement in the crowd
fortunately. Defender Jazzi
Barnum-Bobb sealed Newport's
victory with five minutes
remaining. Manager Graham
Westley has used the £10k prize
money from the fixture to buy
much-needed training equipment.
COUNTY SLIP UP AT ALFRETON
Nov 6 - Terry Kennedy's second-half equaliser
earned Alfreton Town an FA Cup first-round replay against Newport
County. Josh Sheehan's strike had given Graham Westley's side a
65th-minute lead. But former Sheffield United defender Kennedy levelled
for Nicky Law's side with his first goal for the club nine minutes
later. The sides will replay for a place in the second round at Rodney
Parade on Tuesday, 15 November. The winners face a tough away fixture in
the next round at Plymouth.
HEALEY LEADS COUNTY CHARGE AT ACCRINGTON
Oct 30 - Newport County completed a fantastic
3-1 win away at Accrington Stanley yesterday as they closed the gap on
relegation rivals. A fine solo effort from the effervescent Rhys Healey
just after the half time interval put them deservedly in front. On 62
minutes Jazzi Barnum-Bobb seem to have secured the points but
former Exile Janoi Donacien pegged Newport back before a late Josh
Sheehan goal sealed it for Newport to the delight of the 92 travelling
away fans.
Newport County manager Graham
Westley told BBC Radio Wales Sport: "It has been about trying to
improve. We have been working hard on the basics and I think we are
going in the right direction. The players were terrific in their
defensive resilience and credit to them for a fantastic win. The team
was brilliant and their were individuals within it who were
exceptional."
COUNTY FIGHT BACK TO SALVAGE DRAW
Oct 27 - Newport County rescued a point against
Barnet thanks to Sean Rigg's late penalty. The Exiles led at half time
through Ben Tozer's header as they chased a first win under Graham
Westley, but were pegged back in the final exchanges. A nine-minute
double from John Akinde looked to have won it for the Bees, before Rigg
struck with a minute remaining.Newport remain bottom and six points
adrift in League Two. Barnet are 18th. Barnet had led 1-0 when the
original clash at Rodney Parade was abandoned on 3 September due to
heavy rainfall.
TEN MAN COUNTY BATTLE BRAVELY
Oct 23 - Newport County's plight at the bottom
of League Two worsened as they were beaten by leaders Plymouth. The
Exiles were reduced to 10 men on 36 minutes when goalkeeper Joe Day was
dismissed for bringing down Plymouth forward Jordan Slew.
Argyle's Graham Carey converted the penalty and added another from the
spot when he was fouled by Darren Jones. A fabulous 25-yard volley from
County's Jon Parkin had levelled matters earlier on, but Slew's late
strike sealed it.
COUNTY CONCEDE LATE GOAL AT YEOVIL
Oct 16 - Newport County remain at the bottom of
the Football League after conceding an unlucky late goal at Yeovil.
The hosts
took the lead with ten minutes
remaining when defender Dan
Butler deflected a cross into
his own net under pressure from
Yeovil's Tom Eaves. Newport
County boss Graham Westley
remained optimistic despite the
defeat. He told BBC Radio Wales:
"I thought it was a very tight
encounter. Both sides played
some decent football in patches.
We certainly did not look like a
bottom of the table side. We
were undone by a defensive
error. But the lads went about
their work in a very positive
and constructive way."
FLYNN JOINS COACHING TEAM
Oct 13 - Ex-Newport County midfielder Michael
Flynn is joining the club's coaching staff under new manager Graham
Westley. Westley has also appointed Dino Maamria as his assistant.
COUNTY EARN PRECIOUS POINT AT COLCHESTER
Oct 8 - Newport claimed a point at Colchester in
a game of very poor quality. Newport striker Jon Parkin forced a good
save out of Sam Walker before the interval and Jordan Green went close
in the second half. Newport caretaker boss Sean McCarthy told BBC Radio
Wales: "We'd have liked to have gone out with three points obviously,
but a clean sheet never loses you a match. It's a point away from home
and it's a good point. "They've defended well today and they've got
their reward."
WESTLEY TAKES OVER
Oct 6 - Newport County have confirmed former
Peterborough United manager Graham Westley as Warren Feeney's successor.
He will assume his duties on Monday with joint caretaker managers Sean
McCarthy and James Bittner remaining in charge for Saturday's League Two
game at Colchester United. Westley was in charge at Peterborough from
September 2015 until April. Hounslow-born Westley managed Stevenage on
three separate occasions, leading the club into the Football League and
then into League One.He also been manager at Preston North End, Rushden
& Diamonds, Farnborough Town, Enfield and Kingstonian.
COUNTY GAME OFF
Oct 1 - County's match with Stevenage was called
off by the match referee at 1.15 today due to a waterlogged pitch.
GRIMSBY LATE PENALTY WILL SPELL THE END FOR
FEENEY
Sept 28 - An 88th minute penalty gave Grimsby a
1-0 victory against Newport and the disappointment is likely to spell
the end of manager Warren Feeney.
Omar
Bogle's late penalty lifted
Grimsby into the play-off spots
and condemned Newport County to
propping up the League Two
table. Dan Butler brought down
Tom Bolarinwa in the box and
Bogle struck from the spot to
become the division's leading
scorer this season.
DESPERATE DEFEAT FOR NEWPORT
Sept 24 - Bottom-placed Cambridge struck twice
in the second half to clinch their first win of the season in League
Two. Rhys Healey's header gave Newport a 10th-minute lead on his full
debut. Adam McGurk almost equalised when his free-kick hit the crossbar,
and Cambridge were eventually back on terms when Uche Ikpeazu fired in
from Newport old boy Medi Elito's long ball. And Cambridge claimed all
the points when Luke Berry drove the ball home after a scramble.
DONS TOO GOOD FOR EXILES
Sept 17 - High flying Doncaster Rovers proved
too good for Newport County yesterday as a 2-0 defeat put the Exiles
three off the bottom. James Coppinger put Rovers in front after a
dominant first half in which they failed to convert several chances.
Andy Williams added number two in the early part of the second half.
County had a few late chances but it was not to be.
PARKIN DOUBLE CANNOT CONCEAL DEFENSIVE
FRAILTIES
Sep 11 - Newport County ultimately showed great
character to recover from a goal deficit on two occasions to draw with
Cheltenham. However, the two fine finishes from man of the match John
Parkin cannot mask their defensive frailties. Unfortunately, given the
resources available the Exiles may struggle to stop the goals against
column from piling up. In an absorbing contest at Rodney Parade the two
sides traded blows with a constant flow of goal scoring opportunities
with Newport having 18, 6 on target and Cheltenham 11, with 6 also on
target. Both keepers were also called upon to make excellent saves.
Asa Hall scored the opener on 11 minutes from outside the box amid
sloppy home defending. Parkin equalised from close range only for Daniel
Wright to put the visitors back ahead from the penalty spot after Paul
Bignot brought down Harry Pell. Parkin struck again soon after with a
close range volley on 37 minutes.
Newport County manager Warren Feeney told BBC Radio Wales: "For the
neutral it's a great game but from our point of view I'm disappointed we
didn't win that. I said before the game I wanted clean sheets and we
didn't do it. We gave them the two goals. It's schoolboy football. You
can't question our character and I though there were some good
performances from us but I'm just disappointed with the manner of the
goals we conceded."
Also of concern will be attendances with just 2676 at Rodney Parade
yesterday on a very pleasant day with over 400 making the trip from
Cheltenham.
GAME ABANDONED AT HALF TIME
Sep 4 - Newport County's match with
Barnet at Rodney Parade was abandoned at half time following heavy rain
throughout the first half.
Barnet were understandably. The visitors led
after just 23 seconds through John Akinde, in what was the fastest goal
scored in the English Football League this season. It will not count
now. Barnet manager Martin Allen told BBC Radio Wales Sport: "It was a
good 45 minutes for our team, 1-0 up, who knows what would have
happened? I don't think it was a good decision [to call the game off],
surely you give it 20 minutes? There were three puddles, but none of
them were bigger than the paddling pool I have got in the garden for my
dog. The rain was no big deal. There were three little patches and it is
a big football pitch. But we respect the referee's decision."
COUNTY FAIL TO TAKE ADVANTAGE AT
POOLS
Aug 28 - Hartlepool rescued a
valuable point against Newport County despite playing nearly the whole
match with 10 men. Aristote Nsiala was sent off on three minutes for
deliberate handball, with Newport's Sean Rigg scoring from the
subsequent free-kick. That strike equalised Pools' second minute opener
from Nicky Featherstone, before a thunderous volley from Jon Parkin on
27 minutes put Newport ahead. However, Padraig Amond levelled for the
hosts before half-time. Neither side could find a winner in a second
half.55 County fans made the trip. Warren Feeney expressed frustration
with Newport's poor efforts in the second half.
 |
COUNTY FIGHT BACK TO
DRAW
Aug 21 - There was plenty of
character and commitment on show from Newport County at Rodney
Parade yesterday as the Exiles fought back to draw 1-1 against
Crewe Alexandra. The Cheshire started in accomplished fashion
with Chelsea loanee Alex Kiwomya a constant threat. He opened
the scoring after 16 minutes as he cut inside after robbing
Jordan Green of the ball and lofted a fine shot over Joe Day.
Crewe had other opportunities but could not find the second
goal. County had a goal ruled out after 36 minutes when
Ladadie's finish from a Parkin flick was ruled out for offside.
The tables were turned in the
second half as Newport bombarded the Crewe goal. They
accumulated fourteen corners as they pushed for the equalising
goal. Veteran striker Joe Parkin headed on to the cross bar
after an hour and then his flick was superbly denied by Crewe
keeper Garrett. With nine minutes left to play Jazzi Barnum Bobb
broke down the right and his well placed cross was guided home
by the industrious Sean Rigg.
Picture left - Barnum Bobb
bundles over Crewe's Hollands. |
NEW TRAINING BASE FOR COUNTY
Aug 18 - Newport County have agreed
a deal with Newport Live, which operates sport, leisure and cultural
venues across the city, for improved training facilities. The club will
move to new facilities at Spytty Park, gaining access to training
pitches and gym facilities as well as the pool at the Newport
International Sports Village. The first-team staff and management have
begun the process of moving into offices at the stadium.
Newport Live commercial director
Andrea Hall, said: "Newport Live are thrilled to have finalised the
agreement with Newport County AFC which will see the team base their
training ground at Newport Stadium, and enable the squad to benefit from
the use of the facilities across our sites, including Wales National
Velodrome and the Regional Swimming Pool & Tennis Centre"
CONTROVERSIAL LATE PENALTY SINKS
EXILES
Aug 17 - Cameron McGeehan scored
two penalties as Luton Town maintained their lead at the top of League
Two with a late win over Newport. McGeehan scored his first penalty
after Jamie Turley's foul on Danny Hylton. Jennison Myrie-Williams
levelled for County direct from a corner after substitute Jon Parkin's
presence caused problems in the Luton defence. Johnny Mullins was
sent-off for the hosts but McGeehan's stoppage time penalty secured
victory. Darren Jones was punished for his challenge on Pelly Ruddock, a
decision which infuriated Newport players and staff. Newport County
manager Warren Feeney told BBC Radio Wales: "You could see by their
[Luton] reaction that they got out of jail free tonight. "I think the
first [penalty] was a foul but we should have dealt with it. But the
last one was an absolute disgraceful decision.
COUNTY SECURE VITAL FIRST WIN IN
LONDON
Aug 14 - Newport County secured
their first win of the season courtesy of Jamie Turley's first half goal
against Leyton Orient. Turley scored his first Newport goal from an
acute angle after Marlon Jackson's flick on from a corner. Orient barely
threatened apart from a late chance for Ollie Palmer, who headed wide.
Andy Hessenthaler's side are still searching for their first win of the
season. 306 fans made the trip from Newport.
COUNTY OUT PERFORMED BY STAGS
Aug 7 - Mansfield deservedly
secured the spoils with a heartbreaking late goal at Rodney Parade
yesterday. Kevan Hurst's stoppage time winner floated out of Joe Day's
reach to give the Stags a 3-2 victory. However, there was plenty of
potential in the County performance even if after a bright first half
effort they fell away badly in the second half. A twelfth minute Matt
Green header gave Mansfield the lead but Newport quickly hit back with a
free kick and a fine left footed drive from Jack Compton. Danny Rose
made it 2-1 in a period of Mansfield dominance in the second half, a
superb one handed Joe Day save prevented a 3-1 deficit. Against the run
of play Joss Labadie tapped home after a melee following a Randall free
kick. Surprisingly, Exiles boss Feeney only made one substitution on a
very warm day. Mansfield certainly looked the fitter side and County may
have benefitted from some fresh legs. Overall, there was plenty of
potential and no little spirit in this performance.
SEASON TICKETS SHAMBLES AT
COUNTY
Aug 2 - Season ticket holders at
Newport County will not receive their ticket until AFTER the new season
has started. The 600 or so season ticket holders will receive Mansfield
match tickets for their seats issued by the club office with their
season tickets available in time for the second home league game.
Striker Tom Meecham has joined Weston super Mare on a six month loan
after playing in County's final friendly, a 1-0 defeat to Gloucester
City. UPDATE - Season tickets were available at Saturday's game
against Mansfield.
PRE-SEASON RESULTS MIXED FOR
COUNTY
July 31 - Newport County lost 4-3
at Forest Green Rovers in their latest friendly. 165 County fans made
the trip. New signing Marlon Jackson, Rigg and Myrie-Williams got the
goals. They won 8-1 at Weston super Mare in midweek after going down 2-0
to Coventry in front of 865 fans at Spytty Park.
NEWPORT PRE-SEASON CONTINUES
July 24 - Newport County play
Coventry City today at Spytty (kick off 3pm) despite an influx of
travellers at the site. County lost 1-0 at Undy on Thursday following
mixed results against opposition in Poland. They won their opening
fixture 1-0 before going down 2-0 in their second fixture. They have
added 34 year old former Cardiff City striker John Parkin to their
squad.
NEWPORT DRAW AT CALDICOT
July 8 - Newport County's
pre-season fixtures started with a 2-2 draw at Caldicot Town with the
main cause of concern a knee injury suffered by Lenell John Lewis. Their
match at Ton Pentre was called off due to the clash with Wales' Euro
semi final clash with Portugal. It will be played on July 28.
EARLY SEASON SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED
-
Thursday 30th June - Squad reports back for pre-season training
-
Wednesday 6th July - Ton Pentre (Away) - Kick-off 7.15pm (Brian
Lomax Cup)
-
Friday 8th July - Caldicot Town (Away) - Kick-off 7pm
-
Sunday 10th July - Sunday 17th - Pre-season tour (Poland)
-
Thursday 21st July - Undy Athletic (Away) - Kick-off 6:45pm
-
Saturday 23rd July - Coventry City (Home, Spytty Park) - Kick-off
3pm
-
Saturday 30th July - Forest Green Rovers (Away) - Kick-off 3pm
-
Monday 1st August - Gloucester City (Away) - Kick-off 7pm
FIXTURES OUT
here - County face Mansfield at RP in league opener on August 6
BUTLER JOINS
July 3 - Newport County AFC can announce the
signing of 21 year old left back Daniel Butler on a 2 year deal with the
club. "Daniel is athletic, he can defend and he’ll be a good addition
for the club" according to coach Warren Feeney.
Daniel, who was born in Newport, Isle of Wight has joined the Exiles
after turning down a new contract with National League side Torquay
United.
