"FRUSTRATION" and "disappointment" are words we have sadly heard before in the last couple of years in relation to the start of Newport County AFC's season.

There is a difference this season, however: fans, players and the team management are frustrated and disappointed that County managed to only draw their first two League 2 games.

There is an expectation and a burning desire to win matches - which is exactly what the Exiles did against League 1 opposition in the Carabao Cup last week, again away from home.

The laying of a new pitch at Rodney Parade means all County's early games are away from home. But that also means that there will be relatively more home matches later in the season - hopefully on a pitch which no longer alternates between a bog and a beach depending on the prevailing conditions.

And superb though the travelling 'Amber Army' are in support of their team, there is no doubting the lift a supportive home crowd can give to a side in a close game.

We trust the fans will be there when the home games return, and hope they and the players will be rewarded with results which ensure there is no need for a 'great escape' this season.