Overview

• Luke Thomas scored twice and Ellis Harrison headed a third from debutant Alfie Chang’s cross in the 3–2 victory at Rodney Parade.
• Newport substitutes Kai Whitmore and Nathaniel Opoku struck late to cut a 3–0 lead and set up a tense finish.
• Head coach Darrell Clarke said he would take accountability for the final 10–15 minutes after switching shape to see out the game.
• Brad Young started in goal with Luke Southwood on Northern Ireland duty and delivered a generally assured display.
• Rovers extended their turnaround to three consecutive League Two wins and five unbeaten across competitions as Newport’s poor run sustained pressure on Dave Hughes.