Goal-scoring debut
Newport County striker Shaquille Gwengwe opened his season with a brace in the club’s 3-0 home win over Rochdale in last week’s League Two opener. The 27-year-old, who netted 47 goals for Poole Town last season, said the second goal was "amazing" and that it was a special moment to get on the scoresheet on his home debut. He added that he was "really happy to get on the scoresheet" after a penalty was saved in the Carabao Cup against AFC Wimbledon.
Playing wide
Gwengwe is currently operating in an unfamiliar wide role, with Christian Doidge leading the line. He said he is "relishing his first taste of EFL football" under new Exiles boss Hayden Mullins and that, even while out wide, his aim is to create and score goals. "The manager expects a lot from us and we try to do that for him each and every day, especially in training," he added.
New manager’s influence
The striker praised Mullins’ demanding style, saying it has been "good" for him as an attacker. "It’s different, but that’s what the team needs right now," Gwengwe said. He noted that the new manager’s approach is helping the team transform on the pitch and that the club is enjoying the change.
Upcoming derby
Ahead of the first Severnside derby of the season, Gwengwe is confident Newport County can give the 1,359 travelling fans something to cheer at the Memorial Stadium. He described the squad as "brothers" and said they are "grounded and taking each game as it comes." Asked about the upcoming match against Steve Evans’ Bristol Rovers, he said he is "really looking forward to it" and hopes to bring back the three points. "The fans are like the 12th man for us," he added, recalling the support they received against Rochdale.
