Early Dominance
Newport County opened the game with a 15‑second goal from Harrison Biggins, giving the Gas an early advantage at the Memorial Stadium. Manager Hayden Mullins said the team “started fast, we wanted to be aggressive and impress and get around the ball.” He praised the first‑half performance as “excellent” and noted the side’s willingness to keep pressing even when two goals down.
Second‑Half Chaos
The match turned into a thriller when Bristol Rovers scored six goals in the second half, turning a 2‑0 deficit into a 5‑3 victory. Mullins described the game as “quick” and said the derby had “all the ingredients you’d want.” He highlighted that the team “didn’t sit off and try and protect” and that, when trailing, they “still went for the game.” He also mentioned that a “sloppy goal” at the end of the first half had given Rovers belief.
A Former Player’s Moment
Former Newport County forward Bobby Kamwa, who joined Bristol Rovers in the summer, was jeered by County supporters before scoring the Gas’ fourth goal. He celebrated by running the length of the pitch in front of the travelling fans. Mullins said the celebration was “Bobby’s decision” and that the fans had reacted to it.
Manager’s Take
Mullins concluded that the side “did exactly what I asked them to do in the first half” and that the team’s positive, front‑footed approach was a good sign for the future.
