Newport County are focusing on their home form and a striker's hot streak as the League Two season gets underway. Manager Hayden Mullins discussed the team's start and Shaquille Gwengwe's impressive goalscoring, while supporters shared their views on the campaign's opening weeks.
Hayden Mullins highlighted the significance of Newport County beginning the season without a home defeat. The Exiles drew 2-2 with Tranmere Rovers on Saturday, with Shaquille Gwengwe netting a 90th-minute equaliser. This result follows an opening day victory, giving County four points from their first two fixtures at Rodney Parade.
Mullins told reporters that making their ground a tough place to visit is a major objective. "It's a real, real big plus and a bonus that we're unbeaten at home, and we've got to use that," the manager said. The team now faces consecutive away matches against Salford City and Northampton Town before returning home to face Fleetwood Town on 12 September. Last season, Newport finished 20th in League Two, conceding 77 goals, so defensive solidity remains a key focus.
Shaquille Gwengwe has joked with manager Hayden Mullins about earning a move to his preferred striker position. The 25-year-old, who has been playing on the left wing, scored his third and fourth goals of the season in the draw with Tranmere. No player in the division has scored more than the former non-league forward so far this campaign. Mullins revealed the light-hearted exchange. "Jokingly, he just said to me, 'Have I earned a place up front yet?'" the manager recounted. Mullins added that while a change is possible, he warned Gwengwe to "be careful what you wish for," given his current prolific form from a wide area. The manager praised the quality of all four goals, describing them as "striker's goals.
Supporters have given a mixed but generally optimistic assessment of Newport County's early season form. The BBC gathered fan opinions, which touched on the team's performances and a controversial celebration from former player Bobby Kamwa. Kamwa, whose goal kept Newport up last term, celebrated in front of the away fans after scoring for his new club, Bristol Rovers.
Fans acknowledged the team's clear attacking improvement, having scored six goals in two league games, but noted defensive work is needed. One supporter, Tim, said the squad "looks genuinely competitive" but expressed concern over a lack of depth in key areas. Regarding Kamwa's actions, fan Andy suggested the player "could have shown more maturity" given the support Newport gave his career. The club's final league position last year was 20th, 44 points behind champions Bromley.
Several supporters identified specific areas where they believe Newport County could add to their squad. The fan feedback compiled by the BBC mentioned a desire for a defensive-minded midfielder and additional wide options. This comes amid broader recognition that the starting eleven looks strong but the overall squad may be light.
With the transfer window still open, these views highlight where the management might look to act. The team's current squad shows a core group of players who will be tasked with improving on last season's tally of 43 points. Newport's next match is away at Salford City on Tuesday, 1 September.
