EFL scheduling not ‘particularly fair’ says Newport boss Hughes

Despite their midweek efforts at Barnet and an hour’s delay ahead of the League Two opener at Rodney Parade on Saturday because of a medical emergency, County drew 1-1 with highly fancied Notts County.

Notts dominated a first half that finished goalless, but were frustrated by Newport’s dogged defending and Ged Garner gave the hosts the lead before Jodi Jones equalised from the penalty spot.

“I thought to a man everybody was outstanding,” said Hughes, who was appointed Newport manager in May.

“The reception the players got at the end of the game was a telling sign of the supporters’ feelings on a performance.

“I’m sure Notts County would be disappointed if they hadn’t got something from the game, based around their performance.

“Equally it’s a really good start, but it’s only a start. Let’s not get too high when we’ve had a good performance.

“We have to follow this up with a really good week’s work and another good performance at Crawley next Saturday.”