Newport County impressed fans with a 4-1 defeat to Serie A giants Roma on Tuesday, a pre‑season match that former captain Mark O'Brien described as "amazing" and a confidence‑builder for the upcoming League Two campaign. The Exiles hosted the three‑time Italian champions at Rodney Parade before a sell‑out crowd, turning a heavy loss into a showcase of ambition.
What happened on the pitch?
Roma, fresh from a Serie A title, ran out 4‑1 winners, but the scoreline mattered less than the experience. O'Brien noted that players from the Welsh League faced World Cup winner Paulo Dybala, a moment "that will go down in Newport history". Manager Hayden Mullins fielded six new summer signings, giving them a taste of elite opposition and a chance to test their resolve under pressure.
Why does O'Brien see this as a positive sign?
The former captain, now a club ambassador, argued the night offered a "massive encounter" without the usual result pressure. He highlighted Newport's past victories over Manchester City and Manchester United, suggesting the club can hold its head high after such fixtures. O'Brien believes the exposure will help the squad translate the performance into league success, especially with a blend of new arrivals and players who survived last season's relegation battle.
How will this affect the new manager's plans?
Hayden Mullins, appointed recently, sees the match as a platform to implement an aggressive style. O'Brien trusts Mullins to shape the team, noting the mix of fresh talent and seasoned campaigners provides a balanced foundation. The manager’s willingness to test newcomers against top‑tier talent signals a proactive approach that could pay dividends in the early stages of the season.
What comes next for Newport County?
The club heads into a League Cup tie at AFC Wimbledon on Saturday before opening their League Two campaign at home against Rochdale on 15 August. Next fixture: vs Crewe (at home, 2027-02-27) (5th in the table). O'Brien remains hopeful, believing the squad’s exposure to elite opposition will translate into a competitive league run and keep fans optimistic throughout the season.
