Hayden Mullins spoke to the media ahead of Newport County's trip to Crewe Alexandra, discussing Saturday's Emirates FA Cup victory over Walsall, the importance of maintaining the squad's focus and the opportunity to secure the Exiles' first away league win of the season.
County head into the weekend in positive spirits after back-to-back victories over Chesterfield and Walsall, scoring seven goals across the two fixtures.
Despite conceding early against Walsall, Mullins was pleased with the response from his players and their ability to stick to the game plan against a strong opponent.
“The reaction after that was very good. I think the focus was good. We stuck to what we were good at and we were good value for the win in the end.”
The manager also highlighted the hard work being put in by the squad, insisting that the recent results are a reflection of the commitment shown by the players.
“These results are just the consequence of hard work. The amount of work the boys put in is top at the moment. We've got to stay focused on what we're doing and just keep plodding along.”
Attention now turns to Crewe Alexandra, with County looking to secure their first away league victory of the campaign. Mullins knows it will be a difficult challenge against a well-organised side but believes his players have the confidence and ability to get the job done.
“We set up to try and win games and Saturday will be no different. We're in a good place. It's away from home, it's always a difficult task, but we'll be going there trying to get the win.”
Mullins was keen to stress that the focus must remain on the team's performance rather than becoming preoccupied with the search for an away victory.
“The one thing we've got to do is set up and focus on us and how we want to try and attack the game. If that all comes together and we get the performance right, then I'm sure the result will follow.”
The manager also provided an update on squad availability, confirming that Matty Jacob and Kyle Cameron had returned to training.
James Crole and Harrison Pugh remain unavailable for the weekend, alongside the longer-term absentees Matt Dibley-Dias, Tanatswa Nyakuhwa and Moses Alexander-Walker. Christian Doidge has returned to the grass but will not be ready for Saturday.
Mullins was pleased with how the squad has dealt with recent injury problems, praising those who have stepped into the side and made important contributions.
“Tom Davies has come in, he's got himself a goal and some really good performances. Dan Sassi stepped in Saturday and was excellent again.”
He also reserved praise for Matt Smith, who has worked his way back into the starting XI after a period out of the team.
“Smudge has had to be patient, but he's a really good professional. He's a really good guy, he keeps himself focused and he makes sure that he's ready for when his time comes. His time has definitely come and he's improved us as a team.”
Mullins added that Smith's experience and leadership have been valuable to the group, highlighting the midfielder's influence both on and off the pitch.
“To have someone like him in the group is brilliant. He looks after the players around him and he gives really good information into players in front and behind.”
With County looking to build on their recent momentum, Mullins is determined to see his side deliver another strong performance on the road and bring three points back to Rodney Parade.