Nathan Wood scored his first professional goal on Tuesday in Newport’s 2-0 win over Cheltenham Town in the EFL Trophy.
Wood, who moved to the Exiles from Penybont in July 2023 made his first senior start and marked it with a goal: “I can’t remember much about it,” he stated.
“I remember the ball coming in, I think Delaney flicked it on, I’m glad I didn’t have long and just hit it first time, thankfully it’s gone in.
The forward isn’t ‘naïve’ and states that he is aware of the competitiveness in a professional first team squad and is prepared to keep working hard for his place in the side: “Making the transition from the Welsh Premier League to professional football is not only physically difficult, but tactically and mentally difficult too.
“I knew my chance would come, it’s a long season and I knew I had to take my chance when it came. I hope I did that tonight, there is a long way to go but maybe this is a good start,” explained Nathan.
“Football is a tough career, I’m 25 years old, not 18. I know my chance will come, I’ve got to be patient, keep the attitude right, training hard and take the chance when it comes.”
Wood scored 15 goals last season in the Welsh league and is naturally looking to bring that goalscoring trait to Newport: “I owe my goalscoring tendencies to Rhys Griffiths (Penybont manager) he added that to my game, before, I always tried to play deeper, be more creative. Now I’m getting in the right areas, around the back-stick and scoring a few goals. Hopefully I can continue to add that element to my game in the football league.”
Newport boss Graham Coughlan was also pleased with Wood’s contribution to the side: “I’m delighted for Woody and his family, making his first senior start for the club and scoring,” confirmed Coughlan.
“The work Nathan puts in on the training ground after making the transition has taken a toll on his body, hopefully now after three months in a professional environment he settles down and can kick on.
“Woody is a supporter of Newport, he’s stood on the terraces, cheered the club on through the years and he loves it. So, it must be even more special to him scoring that goal.”
Nathan Wood will be looking to further make his mark this weekend as we head to the County ground and Swindon Town in the search for three points. You can buy your tickets here.