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Match Previews

PREVIEW | Exiles host Cheltenham Town in EFL Trophy

8 September 2020

Match Previews

PREVIEW | Exiles host Cheltenham Town in EFL Trophy

8 September 2020

Newport County AFC take on Cheltenham Town in their first EFL Trophy Southern Group F fixture at 7pm on Tuesday evening.

County progressed through to the secound round of the Carabao Cup with a victory over south Wales rivals Swansea City on the weekend, while Tuesday night presents another opportunity for cup success.

Here, you can find all the facts and statistics ahead of the game...

The opposition - Cheltenham Town

Cheltenham Town were one of the most impressive sides in League Two last season after securing fourth place and going on to reach the play-off semi-finals.

Another season of League Two football beckons for the Robins, however they are sure to be one of the favourites for promotion, especially after the signing of striker Andy Williams from Northampton.

Town are also coming off the back of a weekend cup victory against higher league opposition. They defeated League One side Peterborough United 1-0, with Liam Sercombe scoring the winner on his debut.

Team news

County's victory over Swansea was made better by the fact that there were no injuries concerns for Michael Flynn during the game.

The Exiles have since confirmed the arrival of defender Brandon Cooper on a season-long loan from the Swans, strengthening the options that Flynn has at the back.

Cheltenham have certainly been busy this transfer window after bringing in a host of young talent, as well as a few more experienced faces. Many of these players made their debuts on the weekend, and will be looking to cement their places in the starting eleven this evening.

One to watch – Andy Williams

Andy Williams is one of the new arrivals at the Jonny-Rocks Stadium, and has experience of scoring goals at this level. The striker joined the club from Northampton Town and will be hoping to get his goal tally for the season started.

Last season, the 33-year-old managed nine goals in all competitions for the Cobblers, including one against County in September.

Williams also got on the scoresheet at Wembley in the League Two play-off final which saw Northampton triumph 4-0.

Manager – Michael Duff

Michael Duff has been in charge at the Jonny-Rocks Stadium since September 2018 and has proven himself to be one of the best managers in the division.

In his first season, the Northern Irishman guided Town to comfortable safety, before taking them to the play-off semi-finals the year after. He will be hoping the progression continues this season.

The 42-year-old also had an accomplished playing career, making over 300 appearances for Cheltenham and Burnley. He has also won 24 caps for Northern Ireland.

Last meeting between the sides

The last time the sides met, the match ended with the points shared after a 1-1 draw at Rodney Parade.

Tristan Abrahams had put the Exiles ahead early in the second half, but a late goal from County old boy Ben Tozer saw the Robins leave with a point.

The sides also met last season in the EFL Trophy, as Tristan Abrahams and Taylor Maloney scored hat-tricks in a memorable 7-4 away victory for County.

Other EFL Trophy Southern Group F fixtures

Plymouth Argyle v Norwich City U21 (7:45pm)

Watch the live action

Supporters can watch Saturday's clash for £10 on iFollow Exiles.

Click here to purchase your match pass.


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