A valuable workout for all involved as County beat the Martyrs by two goals to one.
The game started fast-paced with both teams looking to reap the rewards of a high press early on, forcing mistakes from the opposition.
Although both sides had half chances the first real chance came from the Martyrs as a deflected shot nearly found the top corner of County’s net. Luckily Maxted’s fast reactions kept the score level.
While both teams looked to break the deadlock, no one was successful and both sides went in at half-time level.
Half-time
The Exiles remained unchanged for the second half whereas the hosts brought on former Exile, Yakubu to try and create some chances for the hosts.
County had various opportunities to break the deadlock but the host’s defended well at the back alleviating any immediate threat County posed.
The first goal of the clash was scored by other former Exile, Tom Stokes in the 55th minute. Stokes tapped in the cross from close range meaning Maxted stood little chance to keep it out.
County’s high fitness levels shone through as the host’s appeared to eventually tire out.
The Exile’s resilience payed off after Nathan Wood equalised in the 61st minute after a series of chances going wide of the target.
Newport carried the momentum and scored a second shortly after, in the 69th minute when Matty Bondswell popped up at the far post to nod the ball home to put County into the lead.
Merthyr gave a good fight to find an equaliser but were unsuccessful.
Full-time
Starting XI: Maxted (GK), Bright, Trialist A, Payne, Seberry, Bondswell, Lonergan, Wood, Waite (C), Trialist B, Rai. Subs: Hopkins (GK), Sanca, McCallum, C.Evans, Alexander-Walker.