Day of Celebration at County
Newport County AFC Manager Justin Edinburgh has issued a final call to arms on Saturday for our last fixture of the season at Rodney Parade against Rochdale AFC (Kick Off: 3:00pm).'The fans have been fantastic all season and we want to show reciprocal appreciation as staff and players to thank each and every one for their unwavering support during an eventful season back in the Football League. Our aim from day 1 of the campaign was to ensure Football League status and then build on all the effort the squad and staff have put in during the past 12 months since gaining promotion. The fans have been pivotal in achieving this and one final push on Saturday will hopefully create a positive result and ensure everyone can look forward to continuing the progression next season.'
Saturday will see a big following from Rochdale AFC as they look to clinch the Sky Bet League 2 title by pipping promotion rivals Chesterfield and Scunthorpe United. Over 1,200 fans from 'The Dale' will be at Rodney Parade that should generate a good atmosphere as the County Choir will also be in full voice.
It is testament to the ability in the County squad who remain unbeaten at home against the top 7 in League 2 with just Rochdale to play and Justin Edinburgh will have a similar strength squad to choose from. Long term injuries to Jamie Stephens, Ismail Yakubu and Byron Anthony combined with knocks to Danny Crow and Ryan Burge means that the Manager has the same group available that travelled to York last weekend. This will be the last game for loanees Tom Naylor (Derby County), Ian McLoughlin (MK Dons) and Kevin Feely (Charlton Athletic) before they return to their parent clubs and it is assured that the County faithful will provide a good send off.
County could finish in a highly respectable eleventh place with victory which would be a remarkable achievement given the lenghy injuries sustained to key players throughout the season and the stop start nature of matches during the winter period whilst Rochdale will win the league if Chesterfield and Scunthorpe Utd fail to register 3 points and Rochdale claim victory.
It should be a fantastic occasion and a chance for all County fans to celebrate their first season back in the Football League for 25 years. The players will aim to complete a lap of honour after the game to thanks the supporters so PLEASE KEEP OFF THE PITCH!
After the match County fans can meet Justin and the rest of the coaching staff along with the players in the Bisley Lounge where the annual Player of the Season awards will be presented.
Tickets for Saturday's game can be purchased in advance for County fans, including a saving of £2 on match-day prices!
PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT ALL TICKETS IN THE ROCHDALE END HAVE BEEN SOLD