UNDY Athletic boss and Newport County fan Laurence Owen sees no reason why the Exiles cannot make the League Two play-offs next season.

However, Owen, whose side entertain Warren Feeney’s men in a pre-season friendly this evening (6.45pm), says most County supporters would just be happy to see the club stabilize after the disappointment of last term.

Stability is also going to be key for Undy as they embark on their first campaign in Welsh League Division One following promotion from the second tier in May.

As they prepare to make the step up, Owen is looking forward to his players testing themselves against a professional outfit when County arrive at the Causeway.

And in Tom Hooper, Marcus Power, Jordan Rathbone, Nathan Woods and Harry Waterhouse, Owen has a handful of youngsters in his squad who have come from the Newport academy.

Owen used some 20 players during Tuesday’s 2-0 defeat to Hereford FC, a game played in sweltering heat at the Causeway – and it’s likely both managers will give plenty a run out tonight.

Jon Parkin could make his County debut after signing on Sunday, while the Exiles remain tight-lipped on the condition of injured striker Lenell John-Lewis, who won’t feature in the match.

Giving his thoughts on this evening’s clash and the season ahead, Owen said: “We’ve got a lot of respect for Newport County and this is a big test for us.

“It’s great for such a small club like ours to pit our wits against a big club like Newport.

“I’m sure most people think we’ll get thumped but we just want to put on a good show.

“We’ve played them in pre-season for the last four seasons and it’s always a nice little money-spinner for the club because it attracts a big gate.”

He added: “We are the highest we’ve been in our 70-year history and five or six years ago we were playing in the Gwent County League.

“I took over as manager last season and it was really pleasing to get the team promoted straight away. We just want to look at stabilizing.

“I’ve followed County since I was a boy and when Undy aren’t playing I go to watch them. Last season was tough, on and off the field, but they survived, and that was the main target.

“This season is just about bettering what they did last season and to be more stable.

“As a supporter, I’d love them to get to the play-offs, and I see no reason why they can’t, but I’m sure everyone connected with the club will be happy to stabilize.”