County seek to retain four out of contract players
May 16 – Newport County are seeking to retain four of their current squad who are out of contract as they build their squad for next season’s campaign. Shane McLoughlin, Nick Townsend, Aaron Wildig and James Clarke have been offered new deals. Newport are expected to confirm Manchester United academy coach David Hughes as their new head coach.
Players released: Lewis Webb, Kyle Jameson, Luke Jephcott, Geoffrey Bony, Joshua Martin, Hamzad Kargbo, Kiban Rai, Josh Seberry , Nathan Wood, Daniel Barton
Players returning to original clubs: Noah Mawene , Kieron Evans , Kyle Hudlin, David Ajiboye
Players under contract: Jacob Carney, Joe Thomas, Cameron Evans, Matt Baker, Ciaran Brennan, Jaden Warner, Nelson Sanca, Anthony Glennon, Tom Davies, Cameron Antwi, Kai Whitmore, Keenan Patten, Jac Norris, Michael Spellman, Bobby Kamwa, Oliver Greaves, Courtney Baker-Richardson.
Academy players offered professional contracts: Moses Alexander-Walker, Riley Lonergan, Sam Watkins, Corey Evans, Morgan Evans.
Poor end to forgettable campaign
May 3 – Newport County ended a forgettable campaign with a poor performance against Tranmere. The Merseysiders ran out 4-1 winners in a game where Newport took a 23rd minute lead through McLoughlin.
The visitors equalised just before half-time when Jake Garrett scored via a deflection.
Kristian Dennis put Rovers in front just after the restart before the Exiles lost Kai Whitmore to a second yellow. Reduced to ten men Newport were overwhelmed with Tranmere getting goals via Patrick and Davison to make it a convincing win.
The Exiles finished the campaign one place above the relegation zone. Owner Huw Jenkins has said a new manager needs to be in place by the end of May.
Exiles lose to Fleetwood
Apr 27 – Fleetwood comfortably saw off Newport County with two second half goals. The goals came from Phoenix Patterson (a superb free kick) on 52 minutes and Zech Medley on 68 minutes. Kamwa came close for the Exiles early on and there was a seven minute delay due to a spectator medical emergency.
Jardim leaves County
Apr 24 – Newport County’s outgoing head coach Nelson Jardim believes he can return to his native Portugal with his head held high after “completing the job” he was asked to do.
Jardim left Rodney Parade by mutual consent today after Monday’s goalless draw with Walsall secured the club’s status in League Two for a 13thconsecutive campaign.
With his 12-month contract due to expire at the end of the season, Jardim felt it was in everybody’s interests to come to a decision on his future at the earliest opportunity.
“The plan was always to meet (with chairman Huw Jenkins) at the end of the season to discuss the future,’’ explained Jardim, who joined the club in July. “But with safety secured on Monday, it was agreed to bring the meeting forward.
“Having completed the job I was asked to do, I felt it was time for a new challenge; spend time with my young family, while also giving the club the extra time to plan for my successor.
“I want to thank the players and the fans for their support this season. I’m sure the majority understood that the task I faced was always going to be a tough one with so many new, inexperienced players joining the club.
“But we got the job done, so from that point of view I only see it as a success.
“We gave 18 debuts to new signings, 12 of which made their League debuts, and I think the experience they’ve gained will only stand them and the club in good stead for the future.’’
update April 25 – Dafydd Williams , the First Team coach, will take over Jardim’s duties for the final two matches of the season starting with tomorrow’s trip to Fleetwood Town. He will be assisted by senior players Aaron Wildig and James Clarke. “We’ve got a fantastic opportunity now in these last two games to finish the season on a positive through our performances and results,” said Williams, who joined the club as first team coach at the beginning of last season.
Walsall fail to exploit opportunities at Newport
Apr 20 – Walsall failed to exploit opportunities given to them at Newport as the game ended in a goalless draw at Rodney Parade after an incident packed second half. A red card for Ciaran Brennan on 78 minutes appeared to gift Walsall a huge advantage and momentum as they pressed forward. However, the Saddlers did not create chances and it was County via Martin who had the best chance. Martin was also clattered by the Walsall keeper Simkin in a reckless challenge that left the midfielder with a head wound but no caution for his opponent. Walsall celebrated as Oisin McEntee appeared to score with a header in the sixth minute of injury time but this was correctly ruled out for handball after the intervention of the assistant referee.
Apr 17 – County fought out a boring no score draw at MK Dons as they limped towards safety.
More conceded late goals spell defeat for Exiles
Apr 12 – Two late goals by Kelleher and Scully were enough to give Colchester victory at Rodney Parade. The first half ended in a stalemate with a chance saved from Baker-Richardson. On 49 minutes David Ajiboye hit the post with a left footed shot. Four minutes later Kai Whitmore went close before Colchester enjoying the better of possession had a succession of chances but failed to score.
Racism incident – Newport County confirmed they were investigating a report of spectator racism towards a Colchester player during the match. County said they were working closely with Gwent Police and Colchester United and that the individual alleged to have carried out the act had been identified. Update – the investigation found no evidence of racism.
Carlisle comeback to defeat Exiles
Apr 5 – Bottom placed Carlisle snatched an 84th minute winner via Aaron Hayden to complete a big comeback and maintain their distant chances of survival. Newport County took the lead on 26 minutes with a Kieron Evans strike. Two minutes later Bobby Kamwa doubled their advantage with a good strike. Centre forward Georgie Kelly hit back for Carlisle on 33 minutes and then equalised after 59 minutes with a right footed shot. Hayden’s left footed shot sealed victory for the hosts.
Spoils shared at Rodney Parade
Apr 1 – Newport and Bromley shared the spoils at Rodney Parade this evening. Bromley started the match strongly with Grant smashing a thunderous strike against the post after 22 minutes. County were fortunate to take the lead when a looping near post header from Cameron Evans found the net just after the half hour.Townsend performed heroics in the home goal as Bromley sought the equaliser before their striker Michael Cheek missed an open goal. Although Martin squandered a good chance for the Exiles Bromley continued to press in the second half getting their just reward from a header from Cheek on 71 minutes.
Exiles outclassed
Mar 29 – Notts County outclassed Newport County this afternoon, winning comfortably in front of a 3,962 crowd at Rodney Parade. Two Charlie Whittaker goals after 6 and 63 minutes were enough to strengthen Notts County’s hopes of automatic promotion.
County lose at Grimsby
Mar 22 – A deflected free kick was ultimately the difference between the two teams as Newport slid to defeat at Grimsby Town. The free kick from George McEachran came on 64 minutes after a foul by Matt Baker. But in fairness Grimsby dominated the match.
County boss Nelson Jardim stated after the match “It’s just frustrating, especially the way we’ve conceded the goal, again after a set play and those set plays are costing us a lot of points away.
“Today was another one, but it’s just a deflection and there’s not much you can do about that.
Exiles back to winning ways
Mar 16 – Newport County returned to winning ways with a comfortable 3-0 win over Harrogate. In front of a 3,756 crowd the Exiles took an early lead, after two minutes, when Cameron Evans guided the ball in following a corner. Courtney Baker-Richardson claimed the second goal after 15 minutes when he scored from close range from another corner. Harrogate had the better chances to score from then on but it was Newport who got the third and decisive goal after James Clarke struck the ball home on 61 minutes following Belshaw’s save from a fine Kamwa effort.
Abject display by County
Mar 13 – Newport County were hammered by Accrington Stanley 5 to nil on Tuesday night. It was an abject display.
Newport County head coach Nelson Jardim told BBC Sport Wales:
“The two teams started with different levels of desire and aggression and that’s the reason we were down 3-0 after 25 minutes.
“When it’s like that it’s very hard. When you lose 5-0 you don’t need to talk too much, the result speaks for itself.”
Exiles fail to press home advantage
Mar 8 – Newport County failed to press home the advantage of scoring the first goal away at Chesterfield. Matt Baker scored from a corner in the 40th minutes but within two minutes Ollie Banks equalised for the home team. Just before the break on 44 minutes Aribim Pepple put the Spireites ahead with a close range effort. Chesterfield had the better of the second half with Pepple hitting the post on two occasions but could not add to the 2-1 winning scoreline.
Kamwa hat-trick inspires Exiles
Mar 4 – A Bobby Kamwa first half hat trick inspired Newport County to victory over Gillingham.
His first goal came from a superb free kick from the edge of the area after ten minutes. His second was a deft chip over the onrushing Gillingham goalkeeper. His third guided in an Ejiofor shot just before the half hour mark. Despite Newport second half dominance Jimmy Morgan headed a debut goal for the Gills after scruffy home defence on 68 minutes.
Exiles exposed by Doncaster
Mar 1 – Doncaster Rovers exposed Newport’s attacking and defensive deficiencies with a 3–0 win. Rob Street scored twice and Luke Molyneux a third in what was hailed as a ‘complete’ performance by Rovers manager Grant McCann, currently third in League Two
Cheltenham dispose of County
Feb 24 – Cheltenham led by former Exiles coach Mike Flynn proved far too strong for Newport County running out comfortable 3-0 winners at Rodney Parade. Williams, Taylor and Archer netted for Town, and to compound County’s misery, Courtney Baker Richardson was given his marching orders after 83 minutes.
Newport held by ten man Bradford
Feb 16 – Newport were gifted the advantage in this home encounter with third placed Bradford City but failed to capitalise. Bantams defender Jack Shepherd was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Courtney Baker Richardson after 17 minutes. The Exiles, who had started brightly, did not make the most of the extra man and the game ultimately petered out in a tame goalless draw.
County see off threatening Carlisle
Feb 12 – Newport County continued their excellent recent run with a fine 1-0 win over a Carlisle team who dominated much of the game. The away team had the better of possession and chances but were met with resolute defence from the Exiles with goalkeeper Townsend again in good form. However, it was a fine goal from the home team that brought a fourth consecutive victory. Sub centre forward Kyle Hudlin found the corner after 76 minutes with a fine shot following Bobby Kamwa’s superb defence splitting ball.
Big win at Crewe maintains Newport improvement
Feb 8 – Newport County maintained their turnaround with a fine 3-0 win over Crewe at Gresty Road.
Goals from Cameron Antwi and David Ajiboye gave the Exiles a two-goal interval lead with Courtney Baker-Richardson adding a third late on.
More relief for Exiles as they see off Morecambe
Feb 4 – A goal by new signing David Ajiboye gave Newport a vital 2-1 victory over relegation threatened Morecambe at Rodney Parade. Joe Thomas scored the opening goal for the Exiles before a strong spell of pressure from the Shrimps brought an equaliser from Gwion Edwards. Ajiboye’s response was almost immediate allaying fears of Newport being dragged into the relegation battle. Exiles keeper Townsend was in exceptional form despite an injury.
Relief as County gain much needed victory
Feb 1 – Newport County gained a much needed victory over fellow strugglers Barrow to give them some relief rom the fear of relegation. The key moment of the game with 20 minutes remaining as Kyle Cameron deflected Cameron Antwi’s cross into his own goal. Barrow had the better of the chances but could not find a way through.
They face bottom placed Morecambe next up at home on Tuesday evening.
Following the game the club issued a statement regarding a homophobic incident at the match“The Club is aware of an incident involving an individual making an abusive comment, of a homophobic nature to an opposing player, which was reported to the match referee during Saturday’s fixture against Barrow AFC.
Such behaviour is completely unacceptable, deeply offensive, and in no way reflects the values of this club or the support we expect for our team.’
Spoils shared at Salford
Jan 29 – Newport County shared a 1-1 draw at Salford last night. The point gained came as fellow strugglers Morecambe, Carlisle, Tranmere and Harrogate all lost. The Exiles will reflect though on their failure to take advantage of the dismissal of Salford’s Fornah after 75 minutes.
County took an early lead from a McLoughlin penalty on 11 minutes. The home team battled back and equalised through an Adelekan penalty on the half hour. They had a number of good chances to win the game including a late opportunity for Kamwa but failed to convert.
Swindon edge out Exiles
Jan 24 – Newport took an early lead through Hudlin against Swindon in front of a bumper crowd at Rodney Parade. However, they failed to maintain their early superiority. Swindon equalised through Harry Smith in twenty five minutes and totally dominated the second half securing the win through a goal from Burnley loanee Joe Westley.
Another setback for County
Jan 20 – Newport County suffered another defeat as they went down 3-2 at third placed Port Vale despite taking the lead on two occasions. County’s goals came from set pieces. Bobby Kamwa gave them an early lead heading in a corner before Ben Garrity equalised and then Cameron Evans headed in a Greaves free kick on 33 minutes. In the second half Vale stormed back with goals from Stockley (62 minutes) and Headley (77 minutes). Kyle Jameson was sent off (his third dismissal of the campaign) after taking out Vale forward Tolaj. Jameson had replaced Ciaran Brennan who was injured in the first half with a suspected dislocated shoulder.
Exiles seek lift from new signings
Jan 18 – Newport County is seeking a lift from the transfer market as they aim to retain their football league status.
Cardiff City left back Tom Davies signed up yesterday on a permanent contract. Davies becomes County’s third signing of the January window following the arrivals of goalkeeper Lewis Webb and winger David Ajiboye, who arrived on loan from Peterborough on Thursday.
County lose the plot and fall to shambolic defeat
Sep 7 – A truly shambolic and ill disciplined performance by Newport County ended with a 4-1 defeat to Port Vale, nine players on the field and a complete lack of discipline. Their task was made difficult by the loss of McLaughlin to injury after 4 minutes. Dominant Vale scored via Jason Stockley after 5 minutes, Aaron Wildig responded with a fine header after 18 minutes. Stockley restored the advantage after 35 minutes. Chislett and Tolaj made it 4-1 with County all at sea. First Brennan (for violent conduct) and then Jameson (for kicking the ball at a Vale fan) were correctly red carded but despite their numbers the Exiles maintained the scoreline to the end.
Exiles win in Morecambe
Aug 31- A goalkeeping error gifted Aaron Wildig a goal after nine minutes and Newport a victory at Morecambe. Despite their lowly position Morecambe fought hard and created a number of opportunities but were denied by the excellence of Exiles’ man of the match goalkeeper Nick Townsend. Manager Nelson Jardim said: “Morecambe are a good side and probably deserved more from the game but we managed it well.
“We had to work hard to keep a clean sheet to win the three points and we showed that we are a good group, which was really important for me too because it shows how willing we are to compete when we need to.”
County see off Stanley in fine win
Aug 25 – A second consecutive 3-1 home win for Newport as they pulled off another fine second half effort to defeat Accrington Stanley.
Shane McLoughlin’s shot was deflected in off Stanley defender Seb Quirk, but the visitors ended the first half strongly and were deservedly on terms when Shaun Whalley cut inside to fire the equaliser past Nick Townsend.
Stanley failed to take their chances as defender Love felled Bobby Kamwa in the box and Courtney Baker-Richardson put the Exiles 2-1 up from the spot after 52 minutes.
Exiles captain Aaron Wildig then hooked in a third in the 63rd minute to settle it despite further opportunities for the Lancashire team.
Exiles battle back to beat Doncaster
Aug 18 – A first half goal conceded following their capitulation to Leyton Orient in the League Cup in midweek seemed to suggest another tough day for the Exiles but they pulled it around in fine style against much fancied Doncaster. Bobby Kamwa changed the game cutting in after 47 minutes to equalise before Kai Whitmore added a second and Matt Baker added a third to round off a resounding second half performance. Att 4755.
Heartbreak as County lose opener
Aug 11 – Newport County suffered heart break in their opening fixture conceding a decisive goal in the fifth minute of injury time to lose 3-2 at Cheltenham.
Newport battled back after conceding two goals in 27 minutes to Joel Colwill and Liam Dulson. They hit back on 43 minutes through a Baker Richardson penalty after Kamba was fouled. Greaves equalised after 73 minutes. The game was then tip and tuck until Colwill popped up to s ore at the death to break Exile hearts.
County lost Will Evans, last year’s top scorer, to Mansfield a few days before the match in a deal believed to be worth £200k.
Shock defeat at Barry
July 20 – Newport County slipped to a shock 2-1 defeat against Barry Town at Jenner Park. Aaron Wildig grabbed the opener for the Exiles. Next up a behind closed doors fixture away at Bristol City on Tuesday
Coach confirmed, another friendly win
July 18 – Nelson Jardim has been confirmed as County coach. The Exiles responded by beating Pontypridd United 2-0:with goals from Bryn Morris and Cameron Antwi.
Newport state they have rejected tentative bids for striker Will Evans, amongst others from Blackburn. Huw Jenkins, who watched Newport’s 2-0 friendly win over Pontypridd United on Tuesday, said: “There has been interest and I will say now we have had a couple of offers, tentative offers, from League One clubs. We have knocked both of them back”
Opening win for Exiles
July 13 – County beat Undy in their opening fixture by 4 goals to 1.
Goals from Michael Spellman, Courtney Baker-Richardson, Kiban Rai and Luke Jephcott secured the win for the Exiles on the road. Next up at Pontypridd United on Tuesday, kick off 7.30pm
County unveil new kit
Jul 12 – Newport County and VX3 have revealed the club’s new home kit for the upcoming 2024-25 Sky Bet League Two season.
The home kit showcases the club’s traditional amber and black colours, with the return of striped hooped socks.
Pure Vans will continue to be displayed on the front of the home shirt, with Best Blinds adorning the sleeve. 57 Tyres will occupy the lower back slot, and Candour Talent will be positioned on the back of the shorts.
The presence of these partners means that young supporters can once again wear the same shirt as their heroes when cheering on the Exiles this season.
The front of the new shirt incorporates unique elements of the historic Newport Transporter Bridge.
Coachless County make several signings
July 10 – Newport County may not have a Head Coach but there have been active in the transfer market as they build next season’s squad.
New owner Huw Jenkins agreed to release former Graham Coughlan. The Exiles have named Nelson Jardim as ‘Lead Coach’ . He has had spells at Birmingham and Swansea previously.
On the player front the club retained Will Evans and Aaron Wildig. They have signed a raft of new players including attacking midfielder Oliver Greaves, returning players Matt Baker, Nathan Wood and Courtney Baker Richardson, winger Michael Spellman and midfielder Cameron Antwi.
On the field play commences with a friendly match away at Undy on July 13.
SEASON REVIEW - County slip away
SEASON 2023/24 – Newport County were always safe but any pretensions for more than that slipped away dramatically as they experienced a poor end of season. They lost their last eight fixtures to end the season in a disappointing 18th position. Their last points came in the win over Wimbledon on March 16.