WARREN Feeney was in a philosophical mood after seeing his Newport County AFC team blitzed by Plymouth Argyle in the second half of their opening Checkatrade Trophy game.

The Exiles took a 1-0 lead into the break at Home Park courtesy of Jordan Green’s 19th-minute strike from Jennison Myrie-Williams’ cross.

But it all turned sour following the interval as the Pilgrims hit back to win the southern section Group B encounter 4-1.

However, while making it clear that the league is very much his priority as County manager, Feeney felt Tuesday’s game was also good for those looking to get some much-needed game time.

“I know there has been a lot of controversy regarding this but with my squad and where we are we’ve got to focus on the league,” he said.

“I’m not disrespecting this competition because I want to win football games, but I want to focus on the league and that’s my sole worry.

“It’s important to give a few game time under their belts and I made a few changes and some of them got on.

“Some were left out of the squad but the good thing was there were a couple I wanted to get 90 minutes like Ben Tozer, Comps (Jack Compton) and Jennison (Myrie-Williams).

“I was pleased that they got minutes under their belts.”

Feeney was also pleased to give a first-team debut to young defender Liam Angel, who started at left-back before switching to a central role in the second half.

“We gave Liam his debut and he’s a good kid,” added Feeney. “He is up into men’s football now and if you’re good enough you’re old enough. It was pleasing that he got 90 minutes on his debut.

“I wanted to get him in last year but obviously it was difficult with where we were.

“You know what you’re going to get off him. It will do him the world of good at a fantastic stadium up against a good side.”