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Match Previews

PREVIEW | Exiles travel to Southend United for the final fixture of the campaign

7 May 2021

Match Previews

PREVIEW | Exiles travel to Southend United for the final fixture of the campaign

7 May 2021

Newport County AFC conclude their Sky Bet League Two campaign with a trip to take on Southend United at Roots Hall.

County will be looking to secure their spot in the play-offs, while United will be hoping they can finish on a high as they prepare for life in the National League following their relegation.

Here, you can find all the facts and statistics ahead of this SkyBet League Two fixture...

The opposition - Southend United

It’s been a tough season for Southend, who sit in 23rd place in the table with relegation already confirmed for the Shrimpers.

United started the season with 11 matches without a win, giving themselves a difficult task from the outset. A run in December of four wins in six gave them hope, but they fell just short.

Despite their circumstances, Southend come into the match on a two-match winning streak and will be looking to see out the season on a high.

Team news

County manager Michael Flynn has named the same starting XI for the last four fixtures and could continue in the same vein against the Shrimpers.

For Southend, Timothee Dieng and Nathan Ferguson missed their last match with knocks but look set to return. Winger Ricky Holmes will miss out after it was discovered he played 45 minutes with a broken ankle in their last outing against Barrow.

One to watch – Timothee Dieng

During his time at Roots Hall, Timothee Dieng has become an integral part of the Southend squad, playing in both midfield and defence.

This season Dieng has contributed three goals which makes him their joint-top scorer in Sky Bet League two.

The 29-year-old joined from Bradford City, having previously played for Oldham Athletic and Brest.

Manager – Phil Brown

Phil Brown took over Southend in April, succeeding Mark Molesley at Roots Hall.

Brown was given six matches to bridge a six-point gap, but his side’s relegation was confirmed with one fixture remaining.

This is the 61-year-old’s second spell at Roots Hall, having been in charge from 2013 until 2018.

Last meeting between the sides

The last meeting between the sides came in February at Rodney Parade, where the visitors boosted their survival hopes with a 1-0 victory.

A free-kick in the 75th minute from Tom Clifford gave United their second away win of the season and lifted them off the foot of the table.


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