From a young age, Corey Evans knew that talent alone wouldn’t be enough.
While others left the training ground after organised sessions, Evans stayed behind — ball at his feet, free kicks lined up, practicing the craft that would later define his style.
“Set pieces have always been something I’ve put extra work into outside of regular training,” Evans says. “From a young age, I practiced them relentlessly.”
Now 18, the Newport County attacker has become one of the standout talents in the club’s Under-18s squad — and not just for his technical brilliance.
Supporters who’ve followed the youth team closely this season are well aware of Evans’ tendency for the spectacular. For those who haven’t, his highlight-reel goals have likely already made the rounds online.
From curling free-kicks to thunderous long-range strikes, Evans’ moments of magic earned him a nomination for March's LFE Goal of the Month Award — a deserved win in the edition after seeing off strong competition from across the country.
But what fans don’t see is the repetition behind the spectacle.
“Ball striking has always been one of my strengths,” he explains. “In recent years, I’ve focused more on developing other areas of my game, but even with slightly less emphasis on set pieces, I’ve still had success.
"It’s rewarding to see that all the hours of hard work are paying off.”
Winning the LFE Goal of the Month was a milestone moment — and one that gave Evans pause to reflect.
“It was a humbling experience,” he says. “It made me think about all the people who have supported me throughout my journey. It was a great feeling to receive that recognition, and it’s something I’m truly grateful for.”
Evans joined Newport’s academy at under-16 level, having developed through the ranks at Bristol City. Like his close friend and recent senior debutant Moses Alexander-Walker, Evans quickly established a strong relationship with Newport County Academy Manager, Luke Hussey.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at Newport. It was a great opportunity that I was given by Luke Hussey, who’s always believed in me and pushed me to improve,” he says.
“I’ve been lucky to play under some great coaches over the years. I’m grateful for the trust they’ve shown in me and the freedom they’ve given me to express myself on the pitch. This season has been a big step forward, and I feel like I’ve progressed so much under both Joe Flurry and Luke.”
Evans’ growth has not gone unnoticed. A standout for the Under-18s, he’s also been involved around the first-team squad — gaining invaluable experience and growing in confidence.
“Being around the first team last season was a brilliant experience,” he reflects. “It gave me a real hunger to push on and earn my place there.
"Watching my closest friend Moses break through and play was inspiring — it’s made me more motivated than ever to work hard and hopefully play alongside him one day in the first team.”
With maturity beyond his years and a highlight reel that continues to grow, Evans is determined to take the next step in his journey, with the pinnacle being consistent first team football.
“Next season, my aim is to break into the first team and get as many professional minutes under my belt as I can,” he says. “Looking further ahead, I just want to keep playing regularly at the highest level possible and continue developing as a player.”