BOSS Nelson Jardim has stated that Newport County AFC is making clear progress as they prepare for League Two.
The Exiles secured a 2-0 win over a youthful Bristol Rovers XI at the Gas’ training base on Tuesday afternoon, thanks to an own goal and a strike from Courtney Baker-Richardson.
They have one more pre-season match at Hereford on Saturday before their season opener at Cheltenham on August 10.
Despite disappointing defeats to Barry Town United and Kidderminster this summer, head coach Jardim is pleased with the progress of his new-look squad, who are adopting a possession-based style of play.
“We knew the new players would take time to adapt, but I think everything is gradually coming together now,” said Jardim, who replaced manager Graham Coughlan.
“It was a really good game, but most importantly, the boys got more minutes in their legs and are really starting to look ready for the season ahead.
“I thought it was a clear improvement from Saturday’s performance [at Kidderminster], and a win puts us in a good position for the game against Hereford on Saturday. It will be difficult, but a good test for us.
“As a coaching team, we’ve been working hard on developing different patterns over the past few games.
“We want to get the boys in the same mindset throughout the game by implementing a style of play that suits the squad best.
“We have been working on passing patterns and the timings of certain moves to put us in the best position to score goals.”
Jardim is working with a squad that includes 11 summer signings, most of whom are gearing up for their first taste of the EFL.
The Portuguese boss praised a pair of experienced players for helping the new arrivals settle in ahead of the Whaddon Road opener.
“The results are important in these games, but the most crucial aspect is the team’s performance, especially with the amount of young talent we have in our squad,” said Jardim.
“I made it a personal goal to use the first few games to get to know the boys and for them to get to know me, and you can see today that we are building together well.
“I would definitely say there is something special in this squad, and we are building a strong squad with good cohesion.
“It is important for us to build great relationships throughout the squad, and I have to say Clarkey [James Clarke] and Aaron Wildig have helped me immensely.
“They are brilliant at making sure everyone feels welcome and that everyone is bonding.”
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