Newport County interim manager Chris Todd was pleased with his side’s performance after a 5-0 victory over Newport City in their second pre-season fixture.
County continued their positive start to preparations for the 2026-27 campaign with another strong display at Spytty Park, with goals from Yahya Bamba, Cole Jarvis and a Shaquille Gwengwe hat-trick securing a comfortable victory.
Speaking after the match, Todd praised the mentality shown by his squad in a competitive derby environment.
“It was really pleasing,” Todd said. “It’s always a tough game coming here because obviously it’s a derby. The lads are getting more games into their legs and getting up to speed, which is great for us, as well as having that competitive competition.
“I know Robbie really well and I knew he’d have them organised, so for us it was always going to be a tougher test.
“The main thing for us was minutes again, but I knew there would be a tougher test in front of us. The boys came through very well and we got what we wanted out of it.
“We saw some really pleasing goals which excited everybody, so it was a good evening all around.”
The fixture also saw first appearances for new signings Cameron Norman, Kieron Evans and Yahya Bamba, with Bamba marking his debut with the opening goal.
Todd highlighted the importance of pre-season fixtures in helping new arrivals settle into the squad.
“Massively,” he said. “It gives them confidence for starters. Yahya comes in and it’s his first game, he gets a goal, which is great for his confidence, and Shaq gets goals as well.
“That can only benefit us as a club going forward. I’m really pleased with the performance.
“These games are about fitness, but they’re also about character and finding out a lot about the group quite quickly. I know I’ve got a group in there that are playing for each other and playing for themselves, which is great. The staff as well, it all helps.
“You have to come here with the right mindset or you go unstuck.”
Following back-to-back victories to begin pre-season, Todd believes the performances are helping build confidence, while acknowledging the tougher tests ahead.
“Of course,” he added. “We’ve got some really tough games coming up and there are going to be a lot tougher tests ahead of us, which is good.
“The good signs are that we’re trying to play a style of football which gets you on the front foot and gets you excited. We’re enjoying it and the boys are enjoying it, which is the most important thing.
“I’ve said to them, you’ve got to enjoy your football. You’ve got to work hard for the badge and the club, which they’re doing.
“I’m excited about what’s coming up.”
County now turn their attention to Saturday’s pre-season fixture against Gloucester City, with Todd looking forward to another challenge as preparations continue.
“The tests will grow as it goes on,” he said. “Leaving aside the whole one, which is going to be a massive test with Champions League stuff, it’s great.
“Tonight was good for the club, it was good for the city and it was good for the community. Everyone was excited before the game, during the game and after the game.
“It creates a great buzz around the place and it shows what we’re all about.”