Shaquille Gwengwe's hot start to the season and fan reaction to Bobby Kamwa's celebration are the main talking points around Newport County this week. The Exiles sit 11th in League Two with four points from their first three matches, having scored eight goals but conceded seven.
Newport County manager Hayden Mullins revealed that forward Shaquille Gwengwe has humorously asked for a central striking role after his fast start to the campaign. According to a BBC report, the 25-year-old scored his third and fourth goals of the season in Saturday's 2-2 draw with Tranmere Rovers, netting his first brace for the club. Gwengwe has been deployed on the left wing so far but would prefer his natural position up front.
No player in League Two has scored more goals than the former Poole Town forward at this early stage. Mullins told reporters he responded to Gwengwe's request by joking that a position change might dry up his scoring. The manager praised the striker's work rate and the quality of his finishes, noting all four goals have been typical striker's efforts. Gwengwe also scored in the opening win against Rochdale and the 5-3 defeat at Bristol Rovers.
Newport County supporters have shared mixed views on Bobby Kamwa's celebration after he scored against his former club for Bristol Rovers. The BBC gathered fan opinions this week, with several acknowledging the player's right to celebrate but questioning his decision to run the length of the pitch to celebrate in front of Newport fans. Kamwa scored the goal that kept Newport in League Two last season before moving to Rovers in the summer.
One fan named Tim told reporters that Kamwa "overstepped the mark," reminding him that Newport resurrected his career. Another supporter, Andy, said he didn't blame the player but felt he could have shown more maturity. The general consensus among those quoted was that while the celebration was excessive, fans should focus on supporting their own team. Newport currently trail league leaders Barnet by three points in the early standings.
Hayden Mullins has been pleased with his team's attacking output but acknowledges defensive work is needed. The Exiles have shown they can score goals, with eight already this season, but they've also conceded seven for a goal difference of plus one. Their recent form reads draw, loss, win from the opening fixtures, placing them mid-table.
Some fans expressed concern about squad depth in the BBC's fan views piece. Supporters mentioned players like James Crole, Cameron Evans, and Matt Smith as good options outside the starting eleven, but felt the squad remains light in key areas. With the transfer window closed, Mullins must work with his current group as they prepare for their next match.
Newport County travel to face winless Salford City on Tuesday, 1 September. The match represents an opportunity to build momentum after their first victory of the campaign. The team's ability to maintain their scoring form while tightening up at the back will be important as they look to climb the table from their current 11th position.
