Ahead of the Exiles’ midweek trip to Leyton Orient, we delve into the history books to pick-out five of County’s most memorable victories in the Carabao Cup.
Luton Town 2-3 Newport County - 9th August 2022
Luton Town might have ended their previous campaign on a high with a Wembley victory, but their EFL Cup ambitions were swiftly dashed by our unforgettable first-round triumph on their home ground.
Kenilworth Road is known for being a tough venue, especially on a Tuesday night, but James Rowberry’s squad was undeterred. The Exiles dug deep, twice coming from behind with goals from Lewis Collins and Chanka Zimba, which cancelled out efforts from Carlos Mendes Gomes and Tom Lockyer.
This set the stage for James Waite’s decisive strike in the 76th minute. After some slick build-up play, the Welshman found himself perfectly positioned in the center of the box and coolly slotted the ball low into the net. The result sealed our passage to the second round, sending the 207 travelling fans back to Wales with smiles on their faces.
Ipswich Town 0-1 Newport County - 10th August 2021
The Exiles made the trip to Portman Road to face Ipswich Town in August 2021, in the First Round of the Carabao Cup.
Timmy Abraham's early fourth-minute goal proved to be the match-winner, but it was Nick Townsend who stole the show. The shot-stopper put on a masterclass, denying the likes of Armando Dobra, Kayden Jackson, and Macauley Bonne, ensuring our progression to the second round.
Gillingham 2-2 Newport County AFC [Newport County AFC win 4-1 on penalties] - 13th August 2019
In an exhilarating first-round clash that season, County and the Gills battled to a thrilling draw.
Brandon Hanlan opened the scoring from the penalty spot but was denied a second goal by Nick Townsend after the break. Tristan Abrahams then grabbed a late equaliser, setting the stage for some last-minute drama.
Mikael Ndjoli restored Gillingham's lead with their third spot-kick of the game deep into stoppage time, only for County to win a penalty of their own moments later. Padraig Amond calmly converted from 12 yards.
There was still time for Ndjoli to pick up a second yellow card before the match went to a penalty shoot-out. Josh Sheehan, Mickey Demetriou, Amond, and Abrahams all found the back of the net to secure County's victory.
Southend United 0-2 Newport County AFC - 8th August 2017
It was a commanding performance from the men in amber as they stunned their League One opponents.
After a goalless first half, Bristol City loanee Shawn McCoulsky struck twice in six minutes to ensure Newport's progression to the second round for the first time in four years.
Brighton & Hove Albion 1-3 Newport County AFC - 6th August 2013
During the 2013-2014 season, County marked their return to the EFL Cup with a statement victory following their promotion from the National League.
Despite Ashley Barnes giving Brighton a first-half lead, the Exiles capitalised on Iñigo Calderón’s red card for the Sky Bet Championship side.
Danny Crow came off the bench to net a brace before fellow substitute Conor Washington sealed the win with a late goal, delighting the over 8,000 fans at the AMEX Stadium.