NEWPORT County AFC’s upcoming FA Cup Fifth Round tie has been attracting attention across the country and beyond.
Striker Padraig Amond can expect some home-town support as he runs out against Manchester City this weekend.
A group of Exiles fans from his hometown of Carlow, Ireland will be watching from the stands as his side face off against the reigning Premier League champions.
Amond has been in fine form in the FA Cup this season, scoring in every round.
His scoring streak has been keeping the patrons of Tully’s Bar in the Irish town well looked-after, each goal earning a free drink for all those present in the pub.
Ed Cahill, who manages the family bar, said: “On the night of the Middlesbrough replay we gave away about 50 free drinks.
“Over the course of the last two FA Cup campaigns we’ve given away hundreds.”
With the Citizens tie on the horizon, Tully’s Bar, in collaboration with Carlow brewery 59 South, have arranged to take a bus load of fans to Newport to show their support for ‘Podge’. A round trip of nearly 800km.
“When Ed came to us to help get this trip together, we jumped at it,” said Declan Redmond, sales and marketing director at 59 South.
“59 South and Tully’s Bar have always been proud supporters of local sports teams and sports people who fly the Carlow flag.”
Amond, who played for Shamrock Rovers in Ireland before spells at Accrington Stanley and Morecambe, has made 72 appearances for Newport County AFC and has helped the side develop a cult Irish following.
“We have all known Padraig since we were young,” said Mr Redmond.
“We’ve followed County since Podge joined and getting the chance to visit Rodney Parade and see him in action is unreal. We’re really looking forward to Saturday.”
The Carlow contingent who were unable to make the trip will be cheering on the Exiles from across the Irish Sea.
“We will be showing the match here in the bar too,” said Mr Cahill.
“As always, when (not if) Podge scores there’s a drink for everyone in the bar.”
The 12-strong team of Carlovians are sure to find a warm welcome in the stands of Rodney Parade but a free pint, even if Amond scores, might be pushing it.
Visitors to the city will be greeted by a host of banners and posters in County’s amber and black.
The club’s logo will be lit up on the clock tower at Newport Civic Centre in the days leading up to the match.
Councillor Debbie Wilcox, Leader of Newport City Council, said: “Newport County has done the city proud and we will be wishing them all the luck in the world.”
For those County fans who don’t have as far to travel to the game, Newport Bus has announced they will be offering free matchday transport to ticket holders on Saturday.
The company is making the gesture to acknowledge the dedication of the fans.
Scott Pearson, managing director of Newport Transport, said: “After seeing the dedication of Newport County fans over the weekend queuing for hours in inclement weather, we are offering free travel as a small token of our appreciation.
“This cup run has created a real buzz around the city, we hope to play a small part in the fantastic atmosphere”.
*Kick off tomorrow is at 5.30pm. You can follow all the action, including the build up, with our live blog. Get involved using the Twitter hashtag #OneClubOneCounty
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