Shaquille Gwengwe scored a dramatic late equaliser to earn Newport County a 2-2 draw with Tranmere Rovers in League Two on Saturday. The striker's brace at Rodney Parade on 29 August 2026 rescued a point after the visitors had fought back from a goal down.
How did the match unfold?
Newport County started brightly and took the lead in the 11th minute. Shaquille Gwengwe connected with a cross to loop a header from a tight angle towards goal. The ball struck the crossbar and then deflected off Tranmere defender Bobby Faulkner before crossing the line. The home side could have doubled their advantage before half-time, but goalkeeper Jordan Wright made important saves to deny Will Vaulks and Tom Ince.
Tranmere, managed by Darrell Clarke, improved after the interval. They levelled the scores in the 71st minute through Zane Okoro. Joel Senior outpaced Newport substitute Dan Sassi down the right flank and delivered a low cross, which Okoro finished smartly at the near post. The turnaround was complete just four minutes later. Substitute Dylan Jones was alert to poke home a loose ball at the far post, putting the visitors ahead.
What was the late drama?
Newport County refused to surrender and found a leveller in the 90th minute. Shaquille Gwengwe was the hero again, firing home his second goal of the afternoon to secure a share of the points. The result means Tranmere Rovers maintain their unbeaten start to the new League Two season. For Newport, the point continues a positive run of form as they build towards their next fixture.
What is Newport County's current form?
The draw adds another point to Newport's tally as they prepare for a busy period. According to Sky Sports, who reported on the match, the Exiles finished the 2025 season in 20th place in League Two with 43 points from 46 games. Their goal difference was -29, having scored 48 and conceded 77. They ended that campaign 44 points behind champions Bromley. However, their recent form tells a more promising story. Their last result before this draw was a 2-1 away win at Barrow on 2 May 2026. In their last five matches across all competitions, they have recorded four wins and just one loss, putting them on a three-game winning streak. You can track their progress in the standings as the new season develops.
What comes next for the Exiles?
Attention now turns to a quick turnaround and a tough away trip. Newport County's next fixture is against Salford City on Tuesday, 1 September 2026. Salford currently sit 4th in the table, presenting a significant challenge. Manager Graham Coughlan will need his squad to recover quickly from this demanding encounter. The team's schedule is packed, and fans can follow all upcoming matches on our dedicated fixtures page. Building on this resilient performance will be key as they look to climb the league table this season.
