Manager Michael Flynn praised a ‘resilient’ Newport County AFC as they ground out a 1-0 victory over Port Vale at Rodney Parade and remained in second place in the League Two table by extending the unbeaten league record to an unprecedented 17 matches.
A sixth successive clean sheet for Tom King means it’s now been over nine hours since the 24-year old last conceded a goal, with County currently boasting the meanest defence in the division by conceding twice in seven matches.
The three points were secured at Rodney Parade by Flynn’s inspired substitutions as he decided to go for broke and throw two attackers into the contest for a defender and a midfielder.
It was no surprise then that the duo had an instant impact as Corey Whitely’s injection of pace gave Port Vale something extra to think about, he glided past Adam Crookes with ease before squaring for Jamille Matt to tap home into the roof of the net.
That was Matt’s first goal of the campaign and ensured County won their third successive home league match by the slimmest of margins.
Read the full match report.
Flynn affirmed: “We were fantastic, we created a few chances, we were so resilient and defended brilliantly all over the pitch.
“The most important thing is the three points. It’s a team game and the defending comes from the front, everybody’s in it and it was good to see the substitutes make an impact as well.
“We were the only team looking to win the game at that point, so I went for it. I took the right back off because I knew Robbie Willmott could slot in there quite comfortably and it gave us more pace and attacking threat.
“I’m over the moon for Jamille. He’s been frustrated just trying to get off the mark and get that first goal. He’s done it now and I hope he can go on a bit of a run now.”
___________________________________
ON THE ROAD | County have a deserved break next midweek before heading on the road to Northampton Town on September 14th. Buy tickets here.
AFTER THAT | The Exiles face another tricky test on the road when they make the long midweek trip to Macclesfield Town on September 17th. Tickets to be made available online soon.
ON PARADE | It’s nearly two weeks until County next play at Rodney Parade but it’s set to be a cracker as early pacesetters Exeter City visit on September 21st. Ticket details to be released shortly.