For the second time in a row, County will be taking part in a third vs fifth match. This time, it’s Stevenage FC who are our opponents.
Recent history would suggest that Stevenage aren't the most favourable of opponents for the Exiles. Despite an impressive come back from 3-1 down in the opening match of the 2017/18 Season to clinch a point on the road, historically the Exiles don't often have much joy against "Boro".
It's tight at the top of the table and victory for the visitors on Saturday will see them go ahead of County in the League Table on goal difference.
It's fair to say, goal difference is still a bit of an anomaly for the Exiles this season. Despite a massive eighteen goals being scored in the previous three home matches at Rodney Parade, and that the Exiles have scored 3 or more goals on 5 occasions this season, it would still be true to say that County rarely win by more than one goal.
County remain the only side in the top four UK leagues to sit inside the top 5 on a negative goal difference whilst across the top leagues in Italy, Spain, Germany and France it’s only Ligue 1’s Saint-Étienne who are in the top five with a minus goal difference. They are also on minus one.
All in all, Saturday is shaping up to be an interesting contest and one which Michael Flynn has described as likely to be the toughest yet. Read what he had to say in his press conference here.
But away from the football, we ask "what's on at Rodney Parade?"
Club Shop and Ticket Office
The Kingsway Club Shop opens at 9.30am and will remain open for all your merchandise requirements until 2pm.
The Rodney Parade Ticket Office will open at 10am and will be open until kick off and for 30 minutes after full time.
Please note Tickets will ONLY be available from the Rodney Parade Ticket Office on match day (not the Club Shop).
Clwb Spytty
It’s our very first Clwb Spytty Match! Clwb Spytty Members have until 5pm Friday to get their special discount tickets. If you’re a Clwb Spytty member, don’t forget to arrive early to enjoy our family fun zone!
Read the Reminder from Spytty the Dog
Bucket Collection for Mind
We are supporting the work of Newport Mind and Changing Minds on Saturday. We will be holding a bucket collection at all the entrance points to the stadium.
Click here to find out why your donations can make such a difference.
There will also be an Information Point in the Marquee for supporters to get information, talk to Mind Charity workers or find out about volunteering. At half time, our special guest from Mind – Jack Holloway – will be joining us pitch side to discuss the brilliant work of Mind and why your support is so important.
Fanzone in the Marquee
Newport City Radio will be hosting their match preview show this evening from the We Fight Any Claim Marquee. They will be a LIVE Music from our guest Aled Hughes and you can also enjoy team news, an interview with first team players and some fantastic entertainment.
Members of the NCAFC Trust will also be based in the Marquee to discuss the band new trust membership options, signing up to Easy Fundraising and more.
We will also have activities from JP Entertainment, Usk New Start Rescue, and Newport Mind.
Can't join us at the Marquee?
You can listen along live online.
Outdoor Fanzone
Newport Live will be holding a drop-in football session from 1.30pm-2.45pm. Weather permitting.
Match Day Programmes
It’s a bumper edition programme this week. This issue - still charged at £3 – includes The Big Interview with Josh Sheehan, an update from the Trust, Academy News, Community News, Club News, a look at how clubs across Wales are tackling racism, and a brand-new article “They’ve worn both shirts”.
There are also all your usual favourites such as A Game of Two Halves, Amber in the Attic, and the Junior Supporters pull-out. As well as a close look at Saturday’s visitors Stevenage.
Half Time Draw
The new and improved Half Time Draw is still going strong. Last week’s winner walked away with half the money raised whilst the three runners up took home fantastic prizes such as money off at the Club Shop and two free cinema tickets.
You can find out exactly what prizes are available and how you can be a winner without actually winning by clicking on the link below.
Find out more about the Half Time Draw
Our Guard of Honour
This week's guard of honour is Civil Service JFC! They will be waving flags and leading the atmosphere ahead of the match. You can also check out their 5-a-side matches on the astroturf at half time. Croeso bechgyn!
First Time at Rodney Parade?
Rodney Parade is located right in the heart of the City meaning there's always plenty to do before and after a game. We aim to create a fantastic atmosphere throughout the whole ground to allow you to really enjoy your time in Newport.
For more information on what's on around the city, good places to eat, and parking and directions, please check out our First Time Visits and Families page for more information.
ORDER OF EVENTS
10.00am - Ticket Office at Rodney Parade Open - Tickets Available Here
10.00am - Club Shop at Kingsway Open - No Tickets Available Here
Midday - Marquee opens
Midday - Disabled Supporters Association arrive to assist supporters.
12.30pm - Rodney Parade & Maindee School Car Parks open (Car parks close at 2.00pm & 2.15pm respectively)
1.00pm – Newport City Radio Saturday Warm-Up
1.00pm – Hospitality opens
1.30pm - Programmes and Half Time Draw Tickets on sale
1.30pm - Turnstiles open / Away End Ticket Office open
2.00pm - Here to Help Volunteers available to assist supporters.
2.00pm - Teams are announced.
2.15pm - Teams come out to warm up.
3.00pm - Kick Off vs Stevenage
3.45pm - Half Time to include Q&A with Mind's Jack Holloway *
4.00pm - Second Half begins*
4.45pm - Full Time*
5.30pm - Ticket Office and Club Shop closes
* Times are not exact as the referee can award a different length of added time at the end of each half.
GET TICKETS HERE
Can't make the match?
Due to the International Break, Saturday's match will be available to watch on iFollow Exiles. The match pass costs £10 and can be purchased here.