Shropshire Star

Newport ready to shuffle a winning pack

Newport are considering changes to a winning side as they bid to make it four victories from four in the Midlands Premier.

Published

First-team manager Phil Gittus has admitted their could be alterations to the line up that secured an impressive 15-13 success over title favourites Luctonians last weekend for tomorrow’s home clash with Syston.

“There are likely to be several changes to the line-up, some enforced and some squad rotation,” said Gittus.

“It’s a long season and how selection is managed will play a huge part in our success or otherwise.”

Syston have endured a tough start to the season following their promotion from Midland West 1 and are currently bottom of the standings having lost all three of their games – the latest being a 19-9 reverse at home to Bridgnorth.

But Gittus will not be taking the opposition lightly and is confident there won’t be any signs of complacency from within his ranks.

“Syston, have struggled thus far, but we will be sure to not allow complacency to creep into our game and will give them complete respect,” added Gittus.

“There are no soft games at this level and we will be ready and fully prepared come Saturday.”

Bridgnorth are braced for a tough test away to Broadstreet.

The Coventry-based outfit were relegated from National League 2 South last season and Bridgnorth coach Brian Smallman expects them to be one of the sides pushing for honours this term.

“Tomorrow will be a test for us,” said Smallman. “They came down last season and I expect them to be one of the sides up there challenging.”

Bridgnorth will be without skipper Dan Griffiths tomorrow due to a knee injury.

Whitchurch aim to heap more misery on Longton tomorrow and bounce back to winning ways in Midlands 1 West.

The Edgeley Park men were edged out 20-17 at home to Hereford last weekend but head to Longton to face a side who have lost three games out of three.

Ludlow will be aiming to avoid an upset tomorrow when they take a break from league action.

The Midlands 2 West leaders travel to face Midlands 3 West ouftit Shrewsbury in the North Midlands Shield.

The hosts provided formidable opposition at their Sundorne Castle base and will be relishing the chance of causing a shock.