Mullins Hails Rovers' Preparedness
Newport County boss Hayden Mullins has warned his side to brace for a grueling contest against Bristol Rovers in the Severnside derby on Saturday, 22 August. The match, set for 12:30 BST, will be the Exiles' second league game under Mullins, following their 3-0 win against Rochdale in their opening fixture.
Mullins acknowledged the challenge posed by Steve Evans' Rovers, who suffered a 3-2 defeat at York City in their campaign opener. 'Steve Evans' teams are always tough to play against,' Mullins said. 'I watched their game. They look solid. They look like a good team. They've got energy. I expect nothing less than a tough game and especially the first 10-15 minutes.'
Historical Context Adds Weight to Derby Clash
The rivalry between Newport County and Bristol Rovers carries historical significance, with the Gas securing two victories in their last two meetings, including a 3-0 win at the Memorial Stadium in January. Mullins emphasized the need for focus, stating, 'We've just tried to focus on areas of the game where we feel we can have an impact.' The manager stressed the importance of maintaining composure despite the momentum from their recent win.
Tactical Focus and Mental Resilience
Mullins highlighted the team's commitment to preparation, noting, 'There are different things and different elements we can look at. I think it's for everyone else to maybe get carried away with, but we've got a job to do.' The manager's emphasis on mental resilience aligns with the Exiles' strategy to counter Rovers' physicality and tactical discipline. 'Once the whistle starts, hopefully the boys will be focused on what they're doing,' Mullins added, underscoring the importance of applying pressure from the outset.
