As Newport County get set to lock horns with Notts County this weekend, we take a look at four players who have represented both clubs.
Scot Bennett
A true Newport County legend, Scot Bennett had a notable career at both Notts County and Newport. He joined Notts County in May 2015, following their relegation to League Two. However, after a brief spell at Meadow Lane, he made a loan move to Newport County in October 2015, where he quickly became a key figure.
Bennett made an immediate impact in his loan spell, scoring his first goal for Newport in a 2-2 FA Cup draw against Brackley Town. His loan was cut short in December 2015 when he was recalled by Notts County, before moving on loan to York City in March 2016.
In a twist of fate, Bennett returned to Newport in June 2016, following the mutual termination of his contract with Notts County. He was part of the Newport squad that achieved the ‘Great Escape’ on the final day of the 2016-17 season, securing survival in League Two with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Notts County. Bennett went on to play a key role in the club’s promotion push in the years that followed, including reaching the League Two play-off final in 2019 and again in 2021. His commitment and leadership on the pitch made him a fan favourite at Newport.
Joss Labadie
Joss Labadie’s journey to Newport County took him through several clubs, including a brief stint at Notts County. After joining Notts in July 2012, Labadie had a solid spell with the club, making 28 appearances and scoring twice. However, his time at Meadow Lane was cut short as he was loaned out to Torquay United before joining Newport County on a permanent deal in 2016.
Labadie quickly became an important part of Newport’s midfield, scoring on his debut in a 3-2 defeat to Mansfield Town. His combative style of play and leadership qualities made him a fan favourite at Newport, where he made 149 appearances. Labadie was also part of the teams that reached the League Two play-off finals in 2019 and 2021, narrowly missing out on promotion both times.
David Pipe
David Pipe, a Caerphilly native, had a successful career at Notts County before his iconic time at Newport County. After starting his career at Coventry City, Pipe moved to Notts County in 2004, initially on loan, before making the move permanent. During his time at Meadow Lane, he made over 140 appearances, cementing his place as a regular in the side.
In 2011, Pipe returned to his roots with Newport County, where he made a huge impact. Not only was he a key figure in the Exiles’ FA Trophy run to Wembley, but he was also a crucial part of the squad that won promotion to the Football League in the 2012-13 season, famously captaining the team to a 2-0 victory over Wrexham in the play-off final. His leadership and consistent performances continued to inspire his teammates and fans alike.
Pipe’s defining moment for Newport came on the final day of the 2016-17 season, when his left-footed cross set up Mark O’Brien for a last-minute winner against Notts County, ensuring Newport’s survival in the Football League. This goal became one of the most iconic moments in the club’s history and is remembered fondly by Newport fans.
Alex Rodman
Rodman joined Newport County on a one-year contract in June 2015. He made his debut for the Exiles on 8 August 2015, in a League Two match against Cambridge United.
During his first season at Newport, Rodman was an important part of the squad, making 29 appearances and scoring four goals. At the end of the 2015–16 season, Newport offered him a new contract, but Rodman chose to move on.
Following his departure from Newport, Rodman signed for Notts County on 24 June 2016. Known for his pace and versatility on the wing, Rodman also had previous stints with several other clubs, including Tamworth, Aldershot, York City, and Grimsby Town.
Additionally, he has represented the England futsal team and made appearances for the non-league national team.
