Newport host Exeter in Leasing.com Trophy clash

In a pivotal match in the early stages of the EFL Trophy, League Two hotshots Newport and Exeter face off in a comparatively gargantuan clash in this competition.

The hosts are unbeaten in four, including winning their last two matches at the County Ground against Swindon and at home to Carlisle United last time out, in which George Nurse scored a stoppage-time winner. In this competition they lost out 5-4 to West Ham’s under 21 side.

Exeter City, another promotion hopeful, find themselves a place above County in second in the League Two table. In this competition, Matt Taylor’s men edged out Cheltenham Town 1-0 at St James’ Park.

Both sides will be looking to improve their chances of qualification to the Southern Knockout Rounds.

Flynn wants revenge for last time out

Last time the two sides met, it finished in a 1-1 draw at Rodney Parade with Tristan Abrahams securing the point for the home side from the spot.

“I thought we should have won the game because second half we were by far the better team.

“For 15/20 minutes just after the fifth minute, Exeter dominated. They switched the play well, they looked dangerous going forward and I’ve got no problem admitting when the opposition are on top.”

Sweeney believes Leasing.com Trophy provides opportunity

Ahead of the match, Grecians defender Pierce Sweeney said:

“The Leasing.com Trophy is good for the younger boys and those around the squad to get game time.

“We play decent clubs. We are going back to Newport which isn’t an easy place to go and will be more like a League Two game, so will be beneficial for the boys coming through.”

Head-to-head

In a tightly contested fixture over the near century it has been played, Newport come just out on top with 45 wins, with Exeter winning 42 and draws amounting to 36.

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