Shropshire Star

Grounds for optimism over Newport promotion

Newport Town sealed an automatic promotion spot in style this week – but are waiting on official league approval to seal their place in the West Midlands Premier Division.

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Adam Proudlock’s men negotiated a potential banana skin in their final league game of the season – at home to rock-bottom Willenhall Town – triumphing 4-0.

The result sealed second spot in Division One, four points behind champions and county rivals Wem Town, meaning the Shropshire duo should take their place in the league’s top flight next season.

But Newport have pressing matters to contend with regarding their home with the club leaving the Shuker Field base after an 18-month stay.

Port are seeking a ground share with a club that would hold the correct grading requirements to play at step six of non-league.

Talks have been going on since January and they are currently in negotiations with a fellow non-league club.

Once a decision is made and an application lodged to the league, promotion will be pending West Midlands Regional Division ratification. League rules state clubs cannot ground share to gain promotion, something Newport insist they are not doing.

It is an exciting era for the club who plan to move into a whole new stadium in the town of Newport within two or three years. Work is ongoing between the hard-working club committee and volunteers.

But for now Newport-born former Wolves forward Proudlock, who has completed his first full season in charge, and his assistant Mickey Baker are toasting a well-earned top two finish.

Goals from Cal Muir, Jamie King, Tom Horton and Ed James downed relegated Willenhall and helped Newport finish on an impressive points haul of 69 with 21 wins from 32 league games.

No.2 Baker said Willenhall had made it difficult, before Newport managed to unpick the Lockmen’s defence.

“It was a really difficult game to play (against Willenhall). They came and their manager shouted ‘let them have it’ and we had to break them down by remaining patient.

“I’ve heard rumours the party went on until about 4am at Ozzy’s Wine Bar in the town!” Said No.2 Baker. “I think there were probably a few sore heads.”

Baker added: “With my experience at a local level and Proudy’s knowledge of coaching, tactics and psychology it’s worked well.” “He knows his stuff and he attracts lads.”

Newport Town folded midway through the 2003/2004 season due to a lack of interest. The club did not reform until 2009/2010, where they had to start again three divisions below the league they won this season.

Baker added: “Slowly we’re climbing.”

Port also claimed the T J Vickers Cup, the first time for the club since the 1980s, with a 3-1 win over higher-ranked Haughmond. They also downed Whitchurch Alport, of the level above, in that cup run.

Robbie Millington was the hero in front of goal this season, ably assisted by Si Jackson, King and James, who all helped the league’s top scorers to 106 goals.

Newport, who do not operate a player budget and are actively seeking sponsorship, have realistic aims for next season’s Premier Division campaign, should promotion be accepted.

“The first season is to stabilise,” Baker added. “It’s about getting some consistency and learning what it takes at that level.

“I don’t think there’s a massive jump. There are half a dozen clubs there that are a step above everyone else and another 10 or 12 that are inconsistent.

“We’re not saying we will be at the top or win but we’re confident we can compete. We’re not daft, we don’t think we’ll be able to smash teams. It’s about learning.

“I’d like to think we could finish mid-table or above. To get in the FA Cup (through an above mid-table finish) would be a massive achievement.”

The club are holding senior and academy trials. Contact welfare.newporttown1896@gmail.com for more information.