Newport County head coach David Hughes has called on his side to channel their frustrations into a strong response when they travel to Chesterfield this Saturday (3pm).
The Exiles suffered midweek disappointment but Hughes insists there were still positives to take, particularly from last weekend’s performance against Gillingham.
“The result and the performance is what it was. We cannot change it,” Hughes said. “All we can do is look ahead and understand why we were disappointed and frustrated. We have to channel all our energies into Chesterfield on the weekend.”
Hughes admitted his side struggled to replicate recent levels in midweek, but pointed to clear progress in performances over the last few weeks.
“The opportunities in the final third were there, as they have been in most games,” he explained. “But we did not manage the ball as consistently or as well as we have done, which was frustrating.
“When you look at the progress we have tried to use as a more objective measure of performance, there have been some really positive elements, particularly against Gillingham last Saturday. We believe results will change provided performance levels remain at that standard. That is where our belief comes from, along with the work and belief of the players.”
Reflecting on a testing run of results, Hughes stressed the importance of remaining calm and consistent in his leadership.
“I suppose what I have learned about myself is to be really calm and stable in my thoughts, in how we manage and how we come across to the players,” he said. “Losing games really hurts — it hurts the players and the staff.”
Hughes also paid tribute to County supporters for their continued backing during a difficult spell.
“The supporters have been outstanding,” he said. “At every home game the players have been cheered off, which is really important. We have to keep giving them that grit and determination, and make Rodney Parade a tough place for any opponent. Newport has always been a club that fights back against the odds and we are determined to make sure that identity remains.”
Despite the challenges, Hughes’ belief in his players and staff remains strong.
“My belief has never wavered and it will not,” he added. “I firmly believe in what we are trying to do as a group of staff, to create an environment where players can thrive, progress, and deliver performances that people enjoy watching. We are 100 per cent certain we are not far away.”
Chesterfield, who themselves have endured a mixed run, represent another stern test.
“They are a really open and attacking side with good players and a vastly experienced manager,” Hughes said. “From our perspective, if we can deliver what we did last Saturday it makes for a really entertaining game. We will look to stamp our style on the game, while accepting their threat.”
Hughes also provided an update on his squad, with injuries continuing to affect his options.
“Liam Shephard has had a setback, Jed Garner similarly, and Matt Smith still has an ongoing problem with his back,” he confirmed. “So no additional worries or concerns at the moment.”
