Newport County goalkeeper Nick Townsend looked back on an unforgettable few weeks at the club, capped off by being named PFA League Two Fans’ Player of the Month for February.
The shot-stopper delivered a standout month between the posts, keeping four clean sheets in six matches and playing a crucial role in securing victories over Barrow AFC, Morecambe, Crewe Alexandra, and Carlisle United.
His performances also earned him a nominated for Sky Bet League Two Player of the Month.
Read on for our full interview with the Exiles' NO.1 below.
On winning PFA League Two Fans’ Player of the Month
"I'm absolutely over the moon with it," Townsend said upon receiving his award.
"If I'm being honest, it was a bit unexpected, but I’m really happy. As a player, you put in the hard work every day, so to receive recognition like this is a special feeling.
“It’s an achievement that reflects everything I’ve put in over the years here at Newport. It’s nice to get something back from it."
The fact that the award was decided by a fan vote made it even more meaningful for the goalkeeper.
"Out of the two awards I was nominated for, this is the one I really wanted," he admitted. "It’s special. Winning this award means a lot—especially coming from the fans.
“Our Newport fans have backed me all the way since I arrived, and knowing they’ve been behind me means a lot. On top of that, it puts the club in the spotlight as well, which is always a positive."
On his strong defensive displays in February
County's defensive record in February was impressive, keeping four clean sheets in six matches. Townsend believes this run was crucial for the team.
"We all knew how important these stretch of games were," he said.
"Facing teams like Carlisle and Morecambe, we needed to step up and get points on the board.
“We hadn’t been as consistent as we would have liked earlier in the season, but this run showed the grit and determination within the squad.
“It’s a testament to the club’s DNA—now the lads coming through need to keep that mentality going forward."
On reaching 200 club appearances
Saturday’s 3-0 home win over Harrogate Town was a special occasion for Townsend. Not only did he mark his 200th appearance for the club, but he also kept a clean sheet and was named Man of the Match.
"It was a dream day for me, to be honest," he said. "The three points were the most important thing, but to get a clean sheet as well, especially after a couple of disappointing games before that, was massive.
“It was the response we needed as a team. Our home form has been strong all season, and now we need to carry that into our away performances."
Reflecting on his journey at the club so far, Townsend admitted that reaching 200 appearances was something he never expected when he first arrived.
"Not a chance," he laughed. "When I first signed, I didn’t think that far ahead. To reach 200 appearances for a club is something special.
“It’s what you want—to have that connection with a club and feel at home. Newport is a family club, and from day one, it’s felt like the right place for me. It’s a club that makes you want to give something back."
On his standout moments so far
Having played in some big matches over the years, Townsend was asked to pick a standout memory.
From the highs of reaching Wembley to facing 13-time FA Cup winners Manchester United at Rodney Parade, it’s fair to say Townsend has seen it all over the years.
"The Man United game is definitely up there," he reflected. "I know we lost, but having the chance to bring my daughter onto the pitch was something I’ll never forget.
“Those are moments you can’t buy. When she’s older, she’ll be able to look back at that day, and it’s memories like that which make football so special."
On his connection with the fans
Having spent seven years at the club after joining in August 2018, Townsend spoke about the strong bond he has built with the Amber Army over the years.
"The fans have been incredible," he said. "This club has a real community feel about it. You can sense how much the city is behind the team. Whether you’re here for two weeks or ten years, they just want the best for you.
“From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed, and I knew this was the place I wanted to be."
On finishing the season strongly
With nine games remaining in the season and League Two safety all but secured, Townsend was asked about the team’s ambitions for the run-in.
"We just want to finish as strongly as possible," he said. "It’s about getting as many wins on the board as we can and building a solid foundation for next season.
“We want to carry this momentum forward and keep improving as a squad."