Newport County continue their pre-season campaign with a trip to Kidderminster Harriers tomorrow afternoon (2pm).
The Exiles travel to Aggborough with the aim of securing a first victory in three matches following back-to-back narrow defeats against Barry Town United (2-1) and Bristol City (2-0).
Here, we take a closer look at our upcoming opposition.
OPPOSITION FOCUS | THE MANAGER
The man in the Reds’ dugout is the experienced Phil Brown, who was appointed as the club's manager in January.
Having been born and raised in South Shields, Brown had an 18-year career as a professional footballer, amassing over 600 appearances. He then transitioned to management, where he has coached various teams across the English Football Leagues, along with a two-year stint in the Indian Super League with Hyderabad.
Brown’s most significant achievement in his extensive managerial career undoubtedly came during his four-year tenure as Hull City manager, where he secured promotion to the Premier League by defeating Bristol City in the 2008 Play-Off Final.
Brown was hired by Kidderminster with the objective of avoiding relegation, a goal he was unfortunately unable to achieve. However, Brown’s record at Kidderminster currently stands at 7 wins, 5 draws, and 6 losses in 18 games.
The Englishman has also had spells at Derby County, Preston North End, Southend United, Swindon Town and Barrow.
OPPOSITION FOCUS | SUMMER BUSINESS
Kidderminster Harriers have been active this summer, aiming to strengthen their squad in an effort to secure promotion back to the Vanarama National League, following their relegation in the 2023-24 season.
The Reds have made several significant signings, including former Wolverhampton Wanderers and Birmingham City midfielder David Davis (pictured) on a free transfer from Forest Green Rovers, and young winger Maliq Cadogan on loan from Swansea City.
Davis appears to be a shrewd acquisition by the Reds, having made over 250 appearances for Wolves and Birmingham City combined. Davis will bring a wealth of experience to the Kidderminster midfield, with extensive playing time at both Championship and League One level.
Cadogan, on the other hand, will add versatility to the Kidderminster side with his ability to play on either wing. The Exiles will need to be wary of the pace and trickery Cadogan has demonstrated during his tenure at Swansea and his six years in Crystal Palace's youth ranks.
OPPOSITION FOCUS | KEY PLAYER
A key player for this weekend's opponents is 33-year-old forward Ashley Hemmings.
Hemmings’ most notable past experiences include Plymouth Argyle (loan), Walsall, Dagenham & Redbridge, Boston United and AFC Fylde. The attacker has seemed to have settled into life at Kidderminster well having made over 180 appearances and scoring 58 goals.
Hemmings has also gained experience internationally in his little time with the England under-18s side in 2007, where he made four appearances.
Regularly operating on the right wing of the Reds' attack last season, Hemmings made 48 appearances in all competitions, scoring 15 goals.
LAST TIME OUT
Newport County and Kidderminster Harriers have not faced each other since their encounter in the FA Cup third round in 2013, where the Exiles were defeated 4-2 by the Reds.
TICKETS
Tickets for the clash at Aggborough must be purchased in advance of entry – there is no facility to pay cash on the turnstile.
Advance match day tickets can be purchased via Kidderminster's online ticketing platform and you can do this up to 15 minutes after kick off. However, please note there is no facility for away fans to buy their ticket in person at the Ticket Office on a match day.
Please remember, you’ll need to make an online purchase for a ticket, even if it’s once you arrive at the ground.