RHYS Healey's early goal counted for nothing as Newport County AFC conceded twice in the final half hour to suffer a 2-1 home defeat to Cambridge United and slip into the League Two relegation zone. Here's what we learned...
1. Feeney under real pressure now
If he didn’t know it already, the manager will be in no doubt now that he is fighting to save his job.
The boos from the stands were loud and clear and Feeney has to deliver wins quickly to regain the faith of the supporters. Draws won’t be good enough.
2. Confidence issues
Ahead early on and playing well, County should have kicked on and beaten a Cambridge side that looked bereft of ideas at the break.
But, such is the fragile nature of this side at the moment, that as soon as the visitors levelled it seemed inevitable that they would go on to win and so it proved with more woeful defending proving costly.
3. Elito can be a threat
Feeney wasn’t the only one to be jeered on Saturday. Former Exiles winger Medy Elito was also targeted following his inconsistent performances last season.
But he showed his undoubted talent with two free-kicks that led two goals for his new side – the best way to answer his critics at Rodney Parade.
4. Cameron worth a second shot
The big 19-year-old on loan from Newcastle United is certainly raw and you could argue that a rookie at the back is not what a struggling side needs.
But, even though he wobbled in the last half an hour, Kyle Cameron showed enough in the first 60 minutes to suggest that he deserves a second chance to prove his worth.
5. Healey grabbed his chance
The real positive for Warren Feeney on Saturday was the performance of Rhys Healey on his full debut.
Not only did the Cardiff City youngster score a poacher’s goal early on, he created chances for others and was a threat throughout. With him, Parkin and Rigg there are goals in the side.
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