This Saturday, Newport County face Accrington Stanley in Sky Bet League Two. We take a closer look at The Reds ahead of another big match for the Exiles.
Accrington Stanley's story
Accrington Stanley are based in Lancashire and are often affectionately known simply as “Stanley.” The current club was founded in 1968, shortly after the original Accrington Stanley folded in 1966. Over the past two decades, the club has climbed through the non-league ranks and earned its place in the Football League. Their progress is testament to strong community backing and ambition.
They currently compete in Sky Bet League Two and have played at the same ground — known in recent times as the Wham Stadium (formerly the Crown Ground) — for many years. The stadium is compact and known for its close, lively atmosphere, which has become something of a home strength for them.
The Head Coach
At the helm is John Doolan, who stepped into the manager’s role permanently in March 2024 after serving as interim boss.
Doolan has a background in youth coaching and development, having worked in the academies of Liverpool and Everton before joining Accrington’s staff. He has sought to bring a clear identity to the club, blending grit and structure as Stanley continues to find stability in League Two.
The Captain
Leadership comes in the form of Seamus Conneely, a stalwart figure at Stanley. He joined the club in January 2015 and has since become one of their most trusted and longest-serving players. Conneely is well regarded for his professionalism and consistency in midfield, and his presence is often cited as a balancing force in the dressing room. Beyond his playing role, he embodies the club spirit — someone who knows Accrington inside and out and whose experience is invaluable in tight matches.
Key Player
One to keep an eye on this weekend is Isaac Sinclair, who joined Accrington Stanley in June 2025 from Curzon Ashton.
The 24-year-old midfielder brings pace, work rate, and attacking willingness. In his early appearances this season, Sinclair has started in both league and cup games, contributing with energy and forward impetus. Given his trajectory and adaptability, Sinclair is a player who could influence key moments for Stanley — whether through penetrating runs, link play, or movement in the final third. He's also the son former professional footballer Trevor Sinclair.