Read our talking points from Rodney Parade as Newport County came from behind to defeat Doncaster Rovers 3-1 in League Two on Saturday afternoon.
After conceding to Owen Bailey’s 30-minute opener, the Exiles turned the game around in the second half with goals from Bobby Kamwa, Kai Whitmore and Matt Baker.
Here are five things we spotted during the match…
A first win for the new boss
Nelson Jardim's Newport County once again demonstrated their relentless spirit and unwavering determination.
In their season opener against Cheltenham, the Exiles staged a remarkable comeback, erasing a 2-0 deficit in under 30 minutes. Though they ultimately fell short due to a heartbreaking 90+6-minute winner from Joel Colwill, Newport’s resilience was clear to see.
Facing Doncaster, County found themselves trailing 1-0 at half-time, but they emerged from the break firing, with Kamwa levelling the score just two minutes into the second half.
The momentum continued as Whitmore unleashed a stunning strike, followed swiftly by Baker’s first career goal, securing a 3-1 victory and sealing a first win of the Jardim era.
Kamwa shines again
Kamwa earned a well-deserved standing ovation from the Amber Army as he was substituted in the 90th minute.
The winger was instrumental in County's victory, netting the crucial equaliser with a brilliant curling effort after dazzling footwork to beat his marker.
Kamwa’s influence didn’t stop there; his relentless pressing won the ball back in Doncaster’s half, allowing him to find Courtney Baker-Richardson, who then assisted Whitmore’s breathtaking goal that put County ahead midway through the second half.
Home debut delight for Whitmore
Midfielder, Whitmore announced himself to the Newport fans with a standout performance that earned him the Player of the Match award.
Although deployed in a more advanced role for much of the game, Whitmore showcased his all-around abilities, winning five ground duels and excelling on both ends of the pitch.
The Rodney Parade crowd was left stunned as Whitmore received the ball on the edge of the box and, against all odds, rifled a tremendous strike into the top corner of the Doncaster net.
Whitmore's dominant display has quickly made him a fan favourite, and the Amber Army eagerly anticipates what more the Welshman has in store.
Baker off the mark
Just three minutes after Whitmore’s stunner, Rodney Parade erupted once more as Baker found himself on the end of a bouncing ball, going one-on-one with Teddy Sharman-Lowe. The centre-half calmly hooked the ball over the goalkeeper and into the far left corner, sealing Newport’s victory.
Baker's goal removed any hopes of a Doncaster comeback, and the Welshman couldn't hide his joy after the match, stating: “To score my first professional goal is a good feeling, it’s been a long time coming."
Baker also played a key role in County's new look five-at-the-back formation, which was instrumental in limiting Doncaster to just one goal after they had scored four in their previous match against Accrington Stanley.
A wholesome return to Rodney Parade
After two consecutive defeats to start the season, the Exiles were determined to give the County fans something to celebrate in their first home match.
Jardim received a warm reception before kick-off, having spent the week reassuring fans of his and the players' desire to show their gratitude for the unwavering support.
The Exiles delivered on that promise, and by full-time, Jardim’s name echoed around Rodney Parade, marking a proud afternoon for Newport County and their loyal supporters.