Monday 21 May

Welsh Schools Under-18 Cup Final, sponsored by Minute Maid

AFON TAF HIGH SCHOOL (Merthyr) 1 HARTRIDGE ACADEMY 2

(at Briton Ferry AFC)

 

Two days after one of the dullest FA Cup Finals in living memory, the finalists in this competition served up 90 minutes of excellent entertainment for the small crowd at the picturesque Old Road ground in Briton Ferry.  The result was in the balance till the end and when the final whistle blew, the Hartridge youngsters were able to celebrate a hat-trick double.

 

They had already won the under-19 trophy against Coleg Powys at Newtown for their third successive triumph in that age group, and they now retain the under-18 cup which they also won in 2005 and 2006.  Their fitness levels were a credit to the coaching and physio team as the Newport lads finished the game strongly against very worthy and well-organised opponents who themselves can be proud of their contribution to the final.

 

The delightful setting was not matched by the quality of the playing surface which showed the wear and tear of a tough season and it was impossible to control the ball at times.  Hartridge looked the stronger side in the early stages but Leighton James had to be alert to save a 14th minute effort.  Matthew James, Ashleigh Evans and Leighton Burrows all used their heading ability to good effect in the opposition penalty area, but Afon Taf were well prepared and dealt with the danger.

 

In the 35th minute, it was the Merthyr side who took the lead with a well-worked free-kick from which ROSS PORTER powered home a header, and they retained the advantage to the half-time interval which came after six minutes of added time.  The many stoppages gave the fans the opportunity to observe local wildlife with a fox patrolling a field just above the pitch keeping an eye on proceedings.

 

With Evans outstanding in midfield and Chris Hartland and Chris Jones stretching the legs of their opponents with non-stop running, Hartridge built up sustained pressure in the second half.  This was rewarded in the 66th minute when JONES headed the equaliser from a Lloyd Toghill corner, though Afon Taf’s defensive organisation often meant that the Hartridge lads had to be content with half chances.  Toghill was proving an increasing threat and though Hartridge kept up the pressure, Leighton James had to be on his guard to deal with some effective counter-attacking, while Matt James and Dan Harrison were a very solid pair in front of him. 

 

Burrows and substitute Dafydd Brewer both hit the post and the match was just four minutes away from extra time when the livewire BURROWS found space inside the area and gave Marcus Clyne no chance with a vicious shot to decide the destiny of the trophy. 

 

County chairman Chris Blight was present to see Shane Brewer lift the cup to add the Hartridge trophy cabinet.

 

Line-ups:

Hartridge:  Leighton James, Aaron Thomas, Shane Brewer (captain), Matthew James, Dan Harrison, Ricci Morgan (Dafydd Brewer 81), Ashleigh Evans, Lloyd Toghill, Leighton Burrows, Chris Jones, Chris Hartland.  Subs not used: David Pearce, Warren Archer, Kane Amos, Michael Palmer.

 

Afon Taf:  Marcus Clyne, Ian McCabe (captain), Chris Thomas, Ross Porter, Lewis Hughes, Steve Martin, Matthew Harris, Thomas Harris, Matthew Sellick, Tarrant Watkins, Richard Gibby.  Sub: Steve Parry.  Subs not used: Mark Jones, Ben Cullen, Chris O’Neill, Chris Davies.

Photos

WEDNESDAY 16 MAY

South West Counties League

NEWPORT COUNTY YOUTH 3   FILTON ACADEMY 1

 

County moved up to third with this comprehensive victory at Llanrumney over the second-placed Bristol side.  But with our one remaining game at home to Eastleigh unlikely to be played, it appears that this will be where we end the season.

 

Nevertheless, this was a very creditable performance and we have had another very good campaign.  In front of a suitably impressed Peter Beadle, County took the lead against very competitive opponents through LEIGHTON BURROWS and though Filton equalised, we regained the lead before half-time through CHRIS JONES who has been in a rich vein of scoring form recently.  The goal was ‘Kicker’s’ 15th in the league this term.

 

We really dominated the second half with Ricci Morgan missing the chance to extend the advantage when his penalty was saved.  Top scorer CHRIS HARTLAND did make the score 3-1 however with the game’s final goal to take his South West Counties League tally to 17 for the season.

 

Line-up: David Pearce, Aaron Thomas, Shane Brewer, Matt James, Dan Harrison, Ashleigh Evans (Warren Archer), Ricci Morgan, Dafydd Brewer (Lloyd Toghill), Leighton Burrows, Chris Jones, Chris Hartland.

 

Our under-18 team represent Hartridge Academy in the rearranged Welsh Schools Cup Final against Afan Taff High School at the Old Road ground of Briton Ferry on Monday 21 May (kick-off 7 pm), when they seek a hat-trick of successes in the competition.

 

The final trials were held for the under-9 boys squad at the junior Academy on 16 May and chairman Chris Blight attended to once again demonstrate how important all age groups are to the future well-being of both the football club, and of the sport in the city.

SUNDAY 13 MAY

South West Counties League

NEWPORT COUNTY YOUTH 7    BROADWAY ACADEMY 0

 

The margin of victory was predictable on league form although it took the County lads a while to get their passing game going on the rather narrow pitch at Hartridge School and there were few chances in the first half.  JAMES PRATT, playing on the right of midfield, scored the goal which gave us an interval lead and there was some great finishing in the second half with CHRIS HARTLAND bagging a hat-trick, and PRATT scoring his second.  LUKE PROSSER, who we hope will be joining the Academy next season, showed the family goal touch, which was just as well because his brother Matthew and father Dave were both watching, while SHANE BREWER, playing effectively on the left side of midfield, showed his aerial prowess with a far post header.

Line-up:    David Pearce, Jason Suter, Craig McDonald, Dan Harrison, Warren Archer, James Pratt, Dafydd Brewer (Alex Morgan), Scott Harris, Chris Hartland (Luke Harris), Michael Palmer (Luke Prosser), Shane Brewer.

SATURDAY 12 MAY

South West Counties League

RICHARD HUISH COLLEGE 1    NEWPORT COUNTY YOUTH 3

 

After a close first half which did not produce a goal, County took control of their morning game in Taunton with their passing game proving too much for the home side.  Kyle Bassett again made a good impression and was foiled by a candidate for save of the season in the opening period.  BASSETT opened the scoring after the break and with Ashleigh Evans taking control in midfield there was no looking back.  LLOYD TOGHILL added the second from the penalty spot and though the hosts replied with a spot-kick of their own, CHRIS JONES had the last word, making the final score 3-1 in our favour.

Line-up:    Leighton James, Aaron Thomas, Craig McDonald, Matt James, Leighton Burrows, Lewis Waite (Jason Suter), Lloyd Toghill (Alex Morgan), Ashleigh Evans, Kyle Bassett, Chris Jones, Ricci Morgan.

Saturday 12 May

 

As one season ends, preparation starts for the next and the Academy staff have been holding trials for under-9 boys on 10/11 May at Caerleon and Rogerstone.  There was a great turn-out with a total of about 80 boys turning out on two nights when the weather was absolutely dreadful.

 

The Academy coaches were delighted to see Peter Beadle attend both events to show, once again, the tremendous togetherness that exists at the football club.

 

Hartridge Academy's Welsh Schools Under-18 Cup Final against Afan Taff High School, scheduled for Merthyr Tydfil's Pendarren Park on 9 May, fell victim to the weather, and has now been rearranged for Briton Ferry on Monday 21 May (ko 7 pm).

Saturday 5 May

South West Counties League

FOREST GREEN ROVERS YOUTH 1    NEWPORT COUNTY YOUTH 6

 

This was a spectacular success at the new Forest Green Rovers ground with County racing to a fully merited five goal interval lead.  Chris Jones and Kyle Bassett formed a strike partnership that was much too strong for the Gloucestershire side and it was particularly pleasing to see how well Kyle fitted in with the boys.  He was a constant threat, displayed an excellent attitude and his presence gave the team a lift. 

 

CHRIS JONES set the ball rolling with two first half goals, and the others came from LEWIS WAITE and a brace from KYLE BASSETT.  Forest Green pulled a goal back after the break, but KYLE had the last word and completed his hat-trick with County's sixth goal, though the winning margin would have been greater had it not been for some excellent home goalkeeping.

 

Line-up:    Leighton James, Aaron Thomas (Kane Amos), Craig McDonald, Leighton Burrows, Matthew James, Dafydd Brewer, Lewis Waite (Michael Palmer), Jay James, Chris Jones, Kyle Bassett, Lebogang Chuene. 

 

Photos

Friday 4 May

Centenary of Schools Under 18 Commemorative International at Wolverhampton Wanderers FC

ENGLAND 3    WALES 3

 

On 13 April 1907 the first schools international football match was staged at Walsall when a Welsh side containing Fred Keenor and Billy Jennings were England's opponents.  A crowd of 2,500 saw the home side win 3-1.  Keenor of course was part of the 1927 Cardiff City team who famously beat Arsenal to win the FA Cup, while Jennings played at full-back for the successful Bolton Wanderers side against West Ham in the first Wembley final four years earlier.

 

One hundred years on the best that the two countries could assemble from its schools staged a commemorative game and Hartridge School, Newport had five players in the Welsh squad.  Shane Brewer captained the side from left-back and the dynamic midfield duo of Ashleigh Evans and Lloyd Toghill joined him, while centre-half Tom Davies was unfit to take a full part after suffering a recurrence of his metatarsal injury a day before the game.  16 year-old Chris Hartland joined Tom on the bench.

 

The game started with the guests taking control of the party with ALEX GAME from Denbigh giving Wales the lead in the first minute, though Northumberland's PHILLIP BANNISTER scored for England on the quarter of an hour mark.  Fears of floodgates opening started to emerge when Burton Albion junior SAM HALL put England 2-1 ahead.

 

However on 32 minutes, Scott Barrow who played for Port Talbot Town against us in the FAW Premier Cup took a corner from which Hartridge and Newport County player ASHLEIGH EVANS produced a flashing header to equalise.  Ash and Togs were dominating the game as they so often do for County and for Hartridge, and when Barrow was tripped on 53 minutes, STEVE DAVIES of Swansea Schools potted the penalty with some ferocity to give Wales a 3-2 lead.

 

The play swung from end to end and though England hit the bar twice, Wales were at least as good and Chris Hartland became the fourth County player on the field when he was introduced on the left of midfield.  Tom Davies was also sent on to ensure he earned his cap and the game was drifting into injury time when BANNISTER, to the obvious delight of the English players and supporters in the 1,200 crowd, ensured that both teams could leave with their self-respect intact.

 

Wolves manager Mick McCarthy attended the game, and it would be interesting to know if, over the previous 100 years, one school has ever previously been represented by five players on the pitch at one time in a home schools international.

FRIDAY 4 May

County sign Lee Jarman

 

The club is delighted to announce the signing of centre half Lee Jarman from relegated Weston. 29 year old Cardiff based Lee, has a wealth of experience at this level, and is welcomed by all at the club.
Peter Beadle said "Lee is a quality signing, he has had it too easy at Weston, and is now looking forward to the challenge at Newport County AFC"

Thursday 3 May

Herefordshire Youth (Giant Killers) Cup Final

MALVERN TOWN YOUTH 1 NEWPORT COUNTY YOUTH 3

 

County beat opponents from Worcestershire to once again take the Herefordshire Youth Cup back into Wales with a tremendous team effort against a strong and capable Malvern side.  The match was played at the well-appointed new facilities of Pegasus Juniors in the Hereford suburbs and the after-match presentations were made by former Sheffield United, Norwich City and Hereford United player Ken Mallender, whose son Paul played for the Exiles in the inaugural Moreton-in-Marsh season, but who now is a keen golfer who works with former County midfield player Mark Williams..

 

Ken himself played in the memorable Hereford giant killing side who eliminated Newcastle United from the FA Cup in 1972 in the match made famous by the Ronnie Radford goal.  This competition, which is named in honour of Colin Addison’s giant killers of that vintage, was first won by County in 2003 since when Malvern have twice had their names etched on the trophy.

 

County chose largely from the squad who had earned their place in the final and the starting line-up included just two second year boys, with the rest made up of first year Academy members and candidates for next year’s intake.  The pre-match instructions from Roger Skyrme were to keep possession, which was not easy because the physically stronger Malvern side impressed in the early stages and took a deserved lead when TOM POOLE’s 25 yard free-kick was deflected past David Pearce in the 14th minute.

 

With captain Leighton Burrows leading by example up front, there were always problems for the Malvern defence from crosses and ‘Buzz’ was close with a 31st minute header.  But his threat was matched by Malvern’s Jamie Gifford who proved a handful for the County defence throughout and he was close to extending the lead on 34 minutes.  Two minutes later though ALEX MORGAN, who impressed throughout alongside Ricky Manship in central midfield, struck the equaliser through a crowd of players.

 

Alex and Ricky are two tremendous prospects for the future if they build on their contribution at the latter end of this season, while Buzz was desperately unlucky not to send County into the half-time break with the lead after his thumping header bounced off the bar.

 

Malvern started the second half on top on David Pearce made an excellent save to deny danger man Gifford two minutes into the second half before a tackle from Lee Barry provided possibly the match defining moment in the 49th minute.  The County left-back suffered a knee jarring injury in making the challenge when Gifford looked certain to score but he was able to continue after some magic from physio Peter White’s bag of tricks.

 

In the 65th minute LEIGHTON BURROWS towered above the Malvern keeper Tom Shepherd to head home a Jay James corner and once County were in front, they produced some determined challenges to keep their advantage with right-back Kane Amos matching his colleague on the other flank in defence.

 

In the middle Dan Harrison didn’t miss a ball all night and he was well supported by James Pratt until he struggled with a calf injury and Matt James was introduced to good effect.

 

The game was full of action at both ends, though County just shaded it for quality as their superior passing game allowed them more retention of the ball, though Malvern played their full part in an excellent game.  A handball by a Malvern defender gave JAY JAMES the chance to strike home an injury time penalty to ensure County took the trophy home again.

 

We thank Pegasus Juniors for their hospitality in staging the final and also the officials of the Herefordshire Football Association who have made us welcome in their competition which has provided great benefits for our players in terms of their development.  Games have been very competitive and well controlled, and all have been very enjoyable for both players and spectators.  We would also like to wish Malvern Town well for the future at senior and youth levels.

 

Line-ups:

Malvern Town: Tom Shepherd, Liam Paddock, Duncan Edwards (Dan Parsons 89), Jordan Harrison (Aaron Murphy 51), Karl Hughes, James Pyatt, Tom Poole, Scott Finnegan, Tom Lacey, Jamie Gifford, Phil Harris.  Subs not used: Callum Davies, Nathan Davies (!), PeterTreadgold.

 

County: David Pearce, Kane Amos, Lee Barry, Dan Harrison, James Pratt (Matt James 53), Jay James, Ricky Manship, Alex Morgan (Jason Suter 90+3), Scott Armitage, Leighton Burrows, Valentine Ngwenga (Michael Palmer ht).  Subs not used: Lebogang Chuene, Jordan Bromley.

 

Scorers:

Malvern: Tom Poole (14)

County:  Alex Morgan (36), Leighton Burrows (65), Jay James (90+2 pen).

 

Officials:

Referee: Nigel Barnes.

Assistants: Carl Bufton, Nigel Payne.

 

Photos

SATURDAY 28 APRIL

Nationwide Conference South

Newport County  1 Cambridge City 2

 

A tremendous season ended on schedule with County failing to extend it into the promotion play-offs as a result of Cambridge City’s third successive victory at Spytty Park.  The fans responded tremendously to the cause by turning up in numbers and the crowd of 1,608 was the largest for a league match at the Stadium since 17 April 1995.  Cambridge fans, who have always made County supporters welcome at Milton Road, provided probably the largest away following of the season and the good relations between the two sets of supporters continued.  City took a 2-0 interval lead, with two long range efforts from Charlie Henry, and though Stewart Edwards scored a spectacular goal midway through the second period, County, playing their seventh game in 15 days could not find another.  Hopes are high for next season though and the improvements on and off the field augur well for the future.

Match Report

SATURDAY 28 APRIL

South West Counties Youth League

Newport County Youth 3    Exeter City Youth 7

 

On a day of disappointing home defeats, the new champions of the SW Counties League crushed a County side, many of whom had played for the Welsh Schools Cup winning Hartridge team at Newtown the previous evening.  County had no answer to an Exeter side who raced into a 5-0 lead.  Some substititions did then pay dividends as Lloyd Toghill and Chris Hartland came off the bench to score and Jay James further reduced the arrears.  But Exeter stepped up a gear again and we congratulate City coach Mike Radford and his team on their achievement this season.

 

County are in youth team action again when they travel to the new home ground of Pegasus Juniors in Hereford on Thursday to play Malvern Town in the final of the Herefordshire FA Youth Cup.

 

Best wishes also go to Shane Brewer, Tom Davies, Ashleigh Evans, Lloyd Toghill and Chris Hartland who are in the Welsh Schools International squad to play their English counterparts at Wolverhampton Wanderers on Friday.

Line-up: L James, Thomas, Barry, M James (Burrows), Harrison, J James, Manship, Morgan (Toghill), Armitage, Palmer, Waite (Hartland).

County scorers: Toghill, J James, Hartland.

FRIDAY 27 APRIL

Under 19 Boys Welsh Schools Cup Final at GF Grigg Latham Park (Newtown FC)

Coleg Powys Newtown 1  Hartridge Academy 2

 

This completed a notable hat-trick of successes in winning the Under 19 competition for the Hartridge Academy who also contest the Under 18 Welsh Schools Cup Final at Penydarren Park (Merthyr Tydfil FC) on Wednesday 9 May against Afan Taff School, Merthyr.  The boys will also be looking for their third successive triumph in the younger age group, so these achievements reflect great credit upon the hard work put in over the years by staff at the school.

 

Hartridge dominated possession but came against a well-organised and determined defensive barrier from Coleg Powys whose goalkeeper Richard Rees appeared to be developing an air of invinciblity as he kept out the best of the visitors' first half attempts.  With Ashleigh Evans and captain Lloyd Toghill controlling midfield, there were frequent opportunities for central defenders Matthew James and Dan Harrison to join the claret and blue surge towards the home goal but the elusive breakthrough would not come.  Tyrone Toppar needed double marking down the left flank and flashed a 34th minute shot wide, while Harrison was denied by Rees as half-time approached.  The home keeper earned a deserved ovation from the crowd in the 43rd minute for a spectacular save from a 25 yard volley from Toghill.

 

The second half began in the same fashion with Rees tipping another long range Toghill shot onto the bar and over before Hartridge broke the deadlock with an EVANS header from a corner in the 56th minute.  Talk of floodgates opening proved premature though as the home side were soon back on terms after a failure to clear a free-kick.  Ricci Morgan supplied a superb right wing cross for Chris Jones to go close before giving way to Jay James who immediately made his presence felt by striking the post.

 

It was Jay James who conjured up the winning goal in the 83rd minute when his cross was sweetly met by JONES to ensure the trophy's retention.

 

The staging of the game and hospitality from Coleg Powys, Newtown FC and the Welsh Schools Football Asociation were excellent, and particular thanks are due to Sue Lloyd Evans from the college, Elwyn Preece the chairman of Newtown FC, Keith James of the Welsh Schools FA and to Minute Maid, the competition sponsors.  

 

Mention is also due to the Newtown Manager and former Newport County AFC player Darren Ryan who wishes everyone well both at the club and at the Hartridge Academy.  Coleg Powys are looking to establish similar links with Newtown FC and we were able to extol the virtues of a partnership between senior club and its feeder systems.

 

Hartridge line-up:     Leighton James, Aaron Thomas,  Matthew Hearne, Dan Harrison, Matthew James, Ricci Morgan (Jay James 74), Ashleigh Evans, Lloyd Toghill, Chris Hartland, Chris Jones, Tyrone Toppar (Leighton Burrows 90).  Subs not used: Michael Palmer, David Pearce, Dafydd Brewer.

Photos

THURSDAY 26 APRIL

Nationwide Conference South

Weston-super-Mare 3    Newport County 4

 

County have given their fans some rollercoaster rides this season but this was the mother of them all!  Around 600 of a crowd of 685 followed us over the bridge and raise the roof as County raced into a three goal lead inside 24 minutes with Craig Hughes and Julian Alsop sandwiching an own goal from Weston's Stephen Reed.  There were no great alarms when Marc McGregor pulled a goal back for the hosts on 36 minutes, but Leon Hapgood reduced the arrears further on 50 minutes and McGregor levelled on 52 as County looked leg weary.  The home side had chances to win it but Sam O'Sullivan came off the bench to score the winner deep into stoppage time, heading the ball home after his shot bounced up off home keeper Ryan Northmore's knee.

Match Report

WEDNESDAY 25 APRIL

South West Counties League

Cirencester Academy 0    Newport County 0

 

A young County side with just two second year boys in the starting line-up fought out a creditable 0-0 draw especially as left-back Lee Barry had to go in goals for the latter part of the game after David Pearce was injured.  This was the second time in successive games that Lee has had to show his goalkeeping skills against Cirencester.  The home side shaded the first half but County impressed after the break and almost snatched victory late in the game when Chris Jones was close to scoring. 

Tuesday 24 April
Nationwide Conference South
Eastbourne 2 County 1

 County's impressive unbeaten run came to an end with three hurdles to go in the quest for a play off spot. An even and entertaining first half kept the supporters of both promotion hopefuls on tenderhooks and it was County who made the breakthrough. The luckless Dominic Douglas was first to meet Damon Searle's hopeful cross and with goalkeeper Lee Hook coming to gather the ball Douglas saw his header divert the ball into an empty net on 57 minutes. Borough took the game to County and equalised within 3 minutes; the impressive Adam Wilde volleying home an arrowed shot from deep inside the box. Jacob Giles was then shown the red card for a rash challenge outside the box as Borough stepped up the pressure and substitute Matt Smart was true to his surname with a neat finish seven minutes from time to secure a well deserved home win. County's woes deepened as Charlie Griffin limped off with a season-ending hamstring injury, only to be heartened by the news that other results had gone their way and maximum points from the remaining two fixtures would guarantee a play off spot come 4.45 pm on Saturday.

Match Report

Supporter Information
Weston super Mare Away 26 April
Please note the following advice issued by Weston-super-Mare AFC for this coming Thursday's Nationwide Conference South league fixture.

There will be crowd segregation as last season and away supporters are advised to arrive at the stadium in good time - the kick off time is 6.00 p.m and turnstiles will open at 5.00 p.m. The social club bars will be closed to all supporters of both clubs before the match and the large Somerset Suite will be opened to away supporters after the match. The away segregated area within the stadium will have catering and toilet facilities.

Please allow sufficient time to travel due to daily congestion on the second Severn Crossing, the M5 and on the dual carriageway into Weston.

SATURDAY 21 APRIL

South West Counties League

Newport County 4    Cirencester Academy  2

 

We had the misfortune of losing our U16 keeper Lewys Smith after he turned his ankle in the warm up. As a result, Lee Barry deputised in goal and we started well going into an early lead through an own goal from a Lloyd Toghill throw in which caused problems in the Cirencester area.  Shane Brewer added a second goal just after half time before Dan Harrison scored a third with a close range header. Cirencester then pulled a goal back before Michael Palmer killed their revival with a fourth goal.  There was a late consolation goal for Cirencester but all in all it was a very good performance that was much needed after Salisbury City had won last week to go above us.

Saturday 21 April
Nationwide Conference South
Sutton United 1 County 1

County fought hard to earn a vital point to stay in touch with their play off rivals. This was a physical match on a poor playing surface which favoured the direct style of their hosts. Craig Tanner had given United a third minute lead and in a match of few goal scoring chances County were gifted a penalty by referee Rob Whitton in the final minute of the first half. Alan Bray made an excellent last ditch tackle on Craig Hughes who was set free inside the box by Charlie Griffin only to see Whitton inexplicably point to the spot and Bowen convert the dead ball kick. County withstood late United pressure to protect their point as they enter the last week of the season with three to play.

Match Report

WEDNESDAY 18 APRIL

Nationwide Conference South

Newport County 4 Eastbourne Borough 0

 

In a season which has seen some scintillating football at Newport Stadium, County reached sublime heights at times to destroy Eastbourne's hopes of making the play-offs.  Craig Hughes was outstanding in an attack which was full of scoring potential and he set up the win with goals in the 20th and 44th minute.  His 69th minute effort almost provided his hat-trick but Lee Hook in the Borough goal parried his shot into the path of Sam O'Sullivan for the third.  Hughes looked certain to reach his first three goal return for County before being brought down by Hook who received a red card.  Jason Bowen despatched the 82nd penalty to take County up to sixth, a point behind Welling with two games in hand.

Match Report

Tuesday 17 April

WELSH SCHOOLS & COLLEGES UNDER-19 CUP Semi-final

Gorseinon College 1 Hartridge Academy 2

 

The Academy under-19 squad matched the performance of their immediate juniors by reaching the national final with a win at Gorseinon College.  Tyrone Toppar scored both goals and Hartridge will now meet Coleg Powys in the final at Newtown on Friday 27 April.

 

The under-18 team will contest the final of the Welsh Schools Cup against Afan Taf at Merthyr Tydfil.

Monday 16 April
Nationwide Conference South
Thurrock 2 County 2
County were once again denied all three points on the road by a last minute equaliser; this time from Thurrock's Cliff Akurang. County had overcome an early deficit through goals from Damon Searle and Charlie Griffin and had looked comfortable in defending their hard earned lead. County will rue the missed opportunities in front of goal as Akurang prevented The Exiles from making up much ground on their play off rivals.

Match Report

SATURDAY 14 APRIL

South West Counties Youth League

Newport County Youth 4 Cardiff Celts 5

 

On a day of great County comebacks, our youth team set the trend in their morning match.  County hauled back a three goal Celts lead to go 4-3 ahead with goals from Chris Jones (2), Dan Harrison and Scott Armitage, but unlike their seniors against Salisbury later in the day, they couldn't hold on.

Saturday 14 April
Nationwide Conference South
County 4 Salisbury City 3

County stormed back to win with the odd goal in seven on the day Histon lifted the Championship trophy. Craig Hughes had restored some hope after early goals from Robbie Matthews and Matt Tubbs had given City a two goal lead. Tubbs added a third early in the second half but a brace from Charlies Griffin and a spot kick from Jason Bowen won all three points for County in an enthralling match. County now travel to Thurrock (Monday) in their search for a play off spot.

Match Report

SATURDAY 14 APRIL

Tony to join Port Talbot

 

Tony Pennock today accepted the managerial position for next season at Port Talbot.

We would like to wish the master well for next season. Tony will always have a special place in the heart of every County fan.

Rob Santwris

THURSDAY 12 APRIL

South West Counties Youth League

Newport County Youth 2 The City Academy Bristol 1

 

This as a very encouraging result and performance from a very young County side in a morning kick-off at Llanrumney.  CHRIS JONES scored both goals to give us a two goal lead and the only blemish was that we failed to turn midfield domination into a more convincing victory.  Our opponents pulled a goal back with 20 minutes remaining but it was to prove their only consolation.

 

Matt James at the back and Lloyd Toghill in midfield were particularly impressive and on a day when we gave opportunities to some hopefuls for next season, Matt Owen, who is not 16 until next October, became possibly our youngest ever player.  There was a debut also for goalkeeper Lewys Smith, another under-16 player.

  

The final of the Herefordshire Youth Cup will be at the new ground of Pegasus Juniors on 3 May and we will contest this against the winners of Hereford United's semi-final against Malvern Town.

 

County: Lewys Smith, Aaron Thomas, Lee Barry, Matt James, Dan Harrison, Dafydd Brewer, Ricky Manship, Lloyd Toghill (Shane Brewer), Michael Palmer (Scott Armitage), Chris Jones (Matt Owen), Ricci Morgan.  Subs not used: Lewis Waite, Chris Hartland.

WEDNESDAY 11 APRIL

Nationwide Conference South

Hayes 0  Newport County 1

 

County won a dour encounter in the west London suburbs against a Hayes outfit who had won their last three games.  A Sam O'Sullivan effort from close range after 22 minutes separated the sides though Hayes caused us problems with some lively attacking.  We came under pressure for spells in the second half but Jacob Giles was never seriously called into action as the four men in front of him kept the Hayes attack at bay.  Results elsewhere mean that Saturday's clash with second placed Salisbury City is one of the tastiest league games in Newport for several seasons and we will be looking for a bumper crowd to attend.

Match Report

Tuesday 10 April

Ludlow Town 1  Newport County Youth 3

Herefordshire Youth Cup Semi Final

 

Two sides from outside Herefordshire played this competitive cup-tie in Shropshire at Ludlow's well-appointed facilities.  A very young County side, with four under 16 boys included found the physical dimension to Ludlow's game hard to cope with before the break and the home side took 25th minute lead.  But some tinkering from Glyn and Roger at half-time did the trick and seven minutes into the second period JASON SUTER levelled.  Our strike pair linked to good effect with the best move of the game when Michael Palmer hit a superb cross from the right which had the finish it deserved from a precision header from SCOTT ARMITAGE in the 69th minute.  VALENTINE NGWENGA, who made a lively late contribution as substitute, completed the scoring two minutes from time. 

 

Our final opponents will be the winners of the second semi-final between Hereford United and Malvern Town.

 

County: David Pearce, Kane Amos, Lee Barry, Dan Harrison, Lewis Randall, Jason Suter (Valentine Ngwenga 69), Alex Morgan, Ricky Manship, Michael Palmer (Craig McDonald 90), Scott Armitage, Lebogang Chuene (Lewis Grant 84).  Sub not used: Lewis Smith.

Saturday 7 April

South West Counties Youth League

 

An early rising for a coach trip to Bournemouth and a morning kick-off found our youngsters up to the challenge, and they returned home from their game at Broadway Academy with their names in lights!  Goals from Shane Brewer and Michael Palmer ensured a 2-0 success and set a trend that was maintained by the first team in the afternoon fixture.

Saturday 7 April
Nationwide Conference South
County 2 Bedford 0

County won a further three vital points in their push for the play offs and in the process relegated visitors Bedford Town. First half goals from Charlie Griffin and top scorer Craig Hughes in the space of six mid-half minutes were sufficient to ensure victory against a dogged Bedford side which offered little attacking threat.

Match Report

Friday 6 April

The newly established Newport County Girls' Coaching Centre has now been operating for seven months under the guidance of James Rowberry who is very pleased at the progress made.  They played two games at Aberdare against Rhondda Cynon Taff a month ago at under 11 and under 16; while today Good Friday they competed in the South Powys Festival at Brecon against teams from all over Wales and thoroughly enjoyed their day.

 

Four teams aged between 10 and 14 were entered and all performed well with one reaching the end of competition play-offs.  James was delighted and would like to thank his team of coaches who included Matthew Prosser, youth team player Dan Harrison, Danny Elliott and Steve Welsher.

Friday 6 April

Weston Super Mare (Away) Match Arrangements 

 

The away match at Weston Super Mare on Thursday 26 April will kick off at 6.00 p.m. Weston have made this arrangement on police advice. Despite the club's appeal the Conference have instructed that the game kick off early in compliance with the police advice. As a club we are not content with this arrangement as it will inconvenience supporters, players and club officials alike. However, the club has no option but to comply with the league instruction. 

Friday 6 April

Appeal to Supporters

 

Manager Peter Beadle has appealed to the supporters of the club to come out in force to cheer the side on to victory over Bedford Town tomorrow (3.00 p.m.) as the club chase a play off spot with nine games of the season to go. Come and support us - the season 'ain't over' yet. We are determined to be in the play off mix come 28 April. 

Tuesday 3 April
Nationwide Conference South
Bishop's Stortford 2 County 2

County were within a minute of victory at Woodside Park following a storming second half comeback. The impressive Greg Pearson had given the home side an early lead in a first half in which they were the better side but County turned the tables on their hosts with goals from Damon Searle and top scorer Craig Hughes, before a late free kick from substitute Dave Collis gave the home side a reprieve.

Match Report

Saturday 31 March 2007

South West Counties League

Newport County Youth 0  Basingstoke Town Youth 1

 

On the morning of our successful first team trip to Basingstoke, their youth team were lowering our colours at Llanrumney.  There were lots to encourage Glyn and Roger though as the management team continue the development of the young players and look ahead to next season.  On the same day, Academy products Danny Brimfield and Matthew Hearne both played in Caerleon's 3-1 defeat against Dinas Powys in the Welsh League and we received favourable reports from Caerleon boss Brendan Dowd on the performance of the two County youngsters.  Brendan is of course still a very good friend of Newport County and supporters will recall his outstanding defensive displays in the last decade.

Saturday 31 March 2007
Nationwide Conference South
Basingstoke 0 County 1

County won all vital three points at The Camrose in a dour match with relegation threatened Basingstoke. A solitary goal from the in-form Charlie Griffin in the 13th minute settled an ill tempered match spoiled by the match officials as much as the high winds.

Match Report

THURSDAY 29 March 2007

New signings

We are pleased to announce the signings of James Simpson( midfield) and Kyle Bassett  (forward), The lads have recently been released by Cardiff City and go into contention for Saturday's game.

 

Beads

Tuesday 27 March 2007

Nationwide Conference South

BOGNOR REGIS TOWN 1 NEWPORT COUNTY 1

 

County suffered two serious mishaps in Sussex as they had victory snatched from them by a last gasp equaliser from Stuart Tuck and then learned that their team coach had been vandalised while parked in the designated area supplied by the hosts.  Charlie Griffin had headed County in front from a cross from the impressive Sam O'Sullivan in the 72nd minute and the home side mounted heavy pressure before Tuck's breakthrough.

Match Report

SATURDAY 24 March 2007

YOUTH TEAM

Bath City 1 Newport County 1

South West Counties League

 

We suffered a setback with a first half injury to goalkeeper Leighton James and, with no replcaement keeper on the bench, left-back Lee Barry came on as substitute and had to don the keeper's jersey.  But Michael Palmer replied for us in the second half and, though we did not concede again, we were disappointed not to win the game which we surely would have done with steadier finishing.

FRIDAY 23 March 2007

Nationwide Conference South

NEWPORT COUNTY  4  FISHER ATHLETIC 2

 

County showed great character and fitness to bounce back from the disappointment of Wednesday's FAW Premier Cup defeat to edge out full-time Fisher in a six goal thriller.  An Anthony Riviere own goal in the 15th minute gave County the lead but Charley Hearn cancelled it out seven minutes later only for Sam O'Sullivan to restore home advantage within a further two minutes.  Jeff Goulding levelled for Fisher on 35 minutes but excellent second half goals from Craig Hughes and Charlie Griffin secured the points.

Match Report

WEDNESDAY 21 March 2007

NEWPORT COUNTY 0    THE NEW SAINTS 1

FAW Premier Cup Final 

Newport's soprano Holly Holyoake delighted the crowd with Mae Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau before the kick-off but once the 2007 FAW Premier Cup Final was underway it was The New Saints, with Michael Jackson and Robbie Williams in their squad, who called the tune.  A sixth minute goal from Steven Beck decided the game in their favour though County had the best two chances of the first half.  County dominated the second period in terms of possession but Gerard Doherty in the visitors' goal was rarely troubled and most of the crowd of 1,809 were disappointed.

Match Report

WEDNESDAY 21 March 2007

Lee Fowler signs his paperwork


In possibly the worst kept secret of all time Lee Fowler has completed his paperwork and signed for the club. Lee is a great addition as an attacking midfielder with a pedigree of playing for clubs in higher divisions and I am pleased that we have secured his signature.
It is no secret that I am not happy that details of every potential signature that we make seem to leak out and become public knowledge whilst we are talking to players. I am trying to keep you all as informed as soon as possible, but as you have seen in the recent past our supporters are not the only people who have access to the Internet and we have lost a number of signings when players in the process of signing for us are then suddenly approached by other clubs. This has to stop. I have written and sent this to Colin Jeremiah for the official website as soon as I could after being given Mike's assurances that international clearance has been given. Lee would have needed to be signed two weeks ago to be involved in tonight's game but will go straight in to contention for Friday night's match with Fisher.
So let's all focus on tonight's final with TNS. The players are in at 9am this morning to prepare for the game and we want to give you all the performance that you deserve. We are hoping that the people of Newport will turn out and enjoy the Spytty atmosphere and we need the shed to give us as much singing and noise as possible to show people at home what they are missing out on when they don't come to a game.
Thanks again for your support.
Beads

TUESDAY 20 March 2007

FAW Youth Cup QF            

 

NEWPORT COUNTY  2   CARDIFF CELTS 2

(After extra time, Celts won 3-1 on pens)

 

County were unfortunate to exit from the Welsh Youth Cup with a semi-final at Gresford the prize for the winners of this encounter played at Barry Town’s well appointed Jenner Park.  This was nominally our home game but the unavailability of facilities in Newport meant that we had to forego ground advantage against the experienced students from Cardiff.

 

Celts took a 7th minute lead with a shot that possibly took a deflection to beat the full-length dive of Keiron Blackburn, but we were soon on level terms with a goal straight out of the coaching text book.  Matthew Hearne took a quick throw-in to Ricci Morgan who hit a superb cross from the right which was matched by the quality of the header from Leighton Burrows.  By half-time we should have already booked our passage as we played all around the Celts who saw little of the ball.

 

When Chris Hartland steered home a right-footed shot early in the second half we looked a good bet for a comfortable success, but the Cardiff side raised their game and equalised with a 62nd minute far post header.  Neither side could get their noses in front again, and extra time was contested between two tired looking teams.  Celts held their nerve in the penalty shoot-out despite the crossbar being rocked three times and the lads will now want to bounce back from the disappointment of defeat.  There were plenty of positive aspects about the quality of their football to reflect upon.

 

County line-up:

 

  1   Keiron Blackburn

  2   Ricci Morgan

  3   Dan Harrison (sub Matthew James 79)

  4   Leighton Burrows

  5   Shane Brewer

  6   Matthew Hearne

  7   Ashleigh Evans (sub Dafydd Brewer 105)

  8   Lloyd Toghill

  9  Chris Hartland

10  Chris Jones (sub Scott Armitage 63)