KEVAN Hurst's 93rd-minute winner condemned Newport County AFC to opening day defeat against Mansfield Town at Rodney Parade. Here's what we learned.

1. Attacking options desperately needed

With Tom Meechan out on loan, Jon Parkin suspended and Lenell John-Lewis injured, Warren Feeney had nobody on the bench to change the game.

Ben Tozer’s introduction allowed his fellow midfielders more freedom to get forward but one or two loan signings this week would provide a major boost.

2. Mark Randall looks a good replacement for Mark Byrne

Byrne’s departure for Gillingham left some big shoes to fill but former Arsenal midfielder Randall looks more than capable of stepping up to the plate.

Randall’s class on the ball was evident and once he gets to know his teammates better his influence should only grow. But he must avoid the kind of rash tackle that could easily have seen him sent off late on.

3. Jack Compton poses a real threat at set-pieces

It’s hard to recall too many goals from free-kicks last season but new winger Compton came up with the goods in a hugely impressive debut.

The Welshman’s perfectly placed effort gave the Mansfield stopper little chance and Compton was equally dangerous in open play.

4. Scot Bennett is Warren Feeney’s main man in defence

Feeney handed the captain’s armband to Bennett in a big show of faith in the former Notts County centre-back.

He and Jamie Turley were picked ahead of the experienced Darren Jones and both were below their best but the partnership has the potential to prove effective.

5. Jazzi Barnum-Bobb more suited to wing-back role

It’s harsh to rush to judgement after just one game but Saturday served to reinforce the notion that Barnum-Bobb looks better in a back five rather than in a 4-4-2 formation.

The youngster was exposed a little at the back against Mansfield and failed to create much going forward. With Paul Bignot ready to step in he knows he has to improve but Feeney is likely to give him the chance to do just that.