NEWPORT County AFC finally return to Rodney Parade this Saturday aiming to recreate the atmosphere that inspired the team to complete their ‘Great Escape’ from relegation in May.

Since that memorable last gasp victory over Notts County, which secured the club’s place in the English Football League, the Exiles have lived up to their nickname.

Michael Flynn’s team have played 12 successive games away from home – seven pre-season friendlies and five competitive matches.

They completed their Tour of Britain with a 5-1 defeat at Championship giants Leeds United at Elland Road in the Carabao Cup second round on Tuesday night.

But it’s back to League Two action on Saturday and back to the green, green grass of home as Chesterfield are the first visitors to the new-look Rodney Parade.

A £750,000 investment from the Welsh Rugby Union, who took control of the stadium County share with Newport RFC and the Dragons this summer, has seen the drainage and irrigation systems overhauled and a brand new hybrid pitch installed.

We are working with County this week to help the club attract 5,000 fans to the first home game of the season and co-chairman Gavin Foxall hopes they can achieve that target.

“We’re grateful to the Argus for running the campaign and I really do hope that we hit that 5,000 figure,” said Mr Foxall.

“If we go back to the Great Escape in May and the way that we’ve started the season off, I really do hope that people come over.

“They’ve come out in their numbers to watch us away and let’s hope that happens on Saturday.

“It’s a new pitch and it will be lovely for those that have been unable to travel away to see some of the football that we’ve been playing.”

Mr Foxall praised the team and the 631 supporters who made the long trip to Yorkshire on Tuesday.

“I felt we gave an excellent account of ourselves and I think 5-1 was a little bit flattering,” he added.

“I thought the boys were brilliant and so were the fans.

“I think we’ve done more than 2,000 miles on the road since the start of the season and to have the support we had on a Tuesday night was absolutely phenomenal.

“So well done to the fans and thanks for the support that they’ve given us.”

The ticket office at Rodney Parade is open from 10am to 7pm today and tomorrow.