NEWPORT County AFC boss Nelson Jardim hailed his side’s character after battling to a goalless draw at promotion-chasing Notts County – but vows there is plenty more to come.
After leading his team to a goalless draw against promotion-chasing Notts County, Nelson Jardim, the manager of NEWPORT County AFC, praised his team’s character and promised there would be more to come.
Despite being under siege for a significant portion of the game, the Exiles managed to earn a valuable point at Meadow Lane.
Despite having 26 shots to Newport’s 7, the Magpies were unable to get past Nick Townsend.
Towards the end of the game, the Exiles also had their chances to counterattack; one such break ended with Courtney Baker-Richardson’s shot being deflected behind following a strong run by Kieron Evans. However, they were content with an unexpected point instead of a burgled three.
“It was a good point coming to a place against a team who for sure will be one of those at the top and challenging for promotion,” said head coach Jardim.
“We have difficulties with injuries but the performance was strong and we did well despite a lot of changes.
“The boys didn’t come here to just defend. Yes, we had a couple of bad spells but we had a good chance towards the end.
“We have got a point away but there is still a lot more to come from us. We have to make sure we keep building on this after another clean sheet.
“We have been criticised for not being consistent and compact but these boys are working hard and that’s not just the XI but the whole squad.
“Now it’s about having a growth mindset so that whoever is on the pitch can perform and understand the philosophy of how we want to play.”
County dug deep and held firm for a point despite three of their most experienced and influential figures –Aaron Wildig (injured), Bryn Morris (substituted after not having a full week of training) and James Clarke (unused sub) – not being on the field.
“When you are building something from scratch, part of that is the spirit of the group,” said Jardim.
“It’s about them enjoying their days working together and being together as a group, making sure the guy next to you is at their best.
“We have shown that we are growing. We are not at the level that I think we should be yet but there is more to come.
“We are trying to build a strong group with character, ready to play good football and enjoy their time on the field in training and on matchdays.
“We have to build on what we have been doing lately. We have to make sure we carry on and stick with this flow.”
County are next in action on Tuesday, December 3 when they travel to AFC Wimbledon with a key game against struggling Carlisle the following
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