Michael Flynn says he was pleased with the majority of Newport County AFC’s 8-1 victory over Weston-Super-Mare but admits there are still things to improve upon ahead of the 2019/20 season.
The Exiles played some sublime attacking football throughout the contest in Somerset and summer signing Corey Whitely again impressed with his pace and trickery causing problems all evening.
The 28-year old bagged his first goal in County colours with a neat 25-yard finish, while there was a double for Padraig Amond and further strikes from Joss Labadie, Kyle Howkins, Josh Sheehan, Keanu Marsh-Brown and Momodou Touray.
But Flynn was left disappointed with the goal County conceded at the Optima Stadium when Sam Hendy was afforded too much time and space to calmly side foot into the far corner.
“Yeah, it was okay,” Flynn affirmed.
“I was disappointed with the goal we gave away but there were some really good parts of the game and the pleasing thing is no injuries either.
“Some of the goals we scored were really good, but I still think we were a little bit open at the back at times and I told them that both at half time and after the game. The goal we conceded was terrible.
“Some of the football was exceptional and they say you can only beat what is in-front of you, so I expected a professional performance.
“That’s what we got so there are a lot of pleasing things but I’m definitely not getting carried away.”
There’s no rest for the Exiles who continue their pre-season preparations by hosting Chelsea U23s tomorrow night at Spytty Stadium.
The match is a benefit fixture for Fraser Franks and there will also be a Family Fun Day in the build-up to kick-off which will also raise money for the former County defender.
Find out more about the Family Fun Day.
Read the ticket release ahead of tomorrow’s fixture.
Flynn commented: “It’s a good occasion for the fans to come over and show their support. I read earlier that it’s 900 tickets available and there’s some activities going on before the game as well. Hopefully that will get more of a crowd over there.
“It’s a good gesture from the club and I’m sure it’ll mean a lot to Fraser and his family.
“I’ll sit down now and see who will play. There might be one or two on the treatment table who could also play – Ryan Haynes and Nick Townsend – so we’ll have a look.
“There’s a few who need game time as well – the likes of Keanu, Benno, Momodou.
“We’re just making sure everyone gets roughly the same amount of minutes so there’s no excuses and everyone will be ready to go for the season.”