Early signs of change against the Exiles 

MK Dons started this game at electric pace. It was like watching a completely different team. The ball was being pumped forwards with urgency. Our passing was quick and incisive, playing through the thirds. For the first time in what seems like forever players were showing courage, carrying the ball forward and driving at the opposition.

 Liam Kelly surprised me with his set piece taking, delivering several dangerous balls. A much improved performance for the heavily criticised midfielder.

Warne set up his men to stretch the pitch which paid dividends for the home side, creating pockets of space to play in.

A first clean sheet in five was well deserved with Newport limited to very few chances despite posing a threat with pace in behind. Jack Sanders was ranked player of the match according to sofascore.com. The centre half is becoming somewhat of an unsung hero having barely put a foot wrong in the last two games.

Second half Dons did drop off in intensity which was to be expected with the demands of the new bosses high octane playing style.

Even with that said Lemonheigh-Evans did have a great chance, skipping past several defenders before chipping the ball onto the post.

Jonathan Leko’s lively introduction in the 74th minute impressed his new manager who said after the game, “He’s right up my street. Anyone who is brave enough to take the ball in positions, to run at people and wants to play is”.

From us as fans we need to accept that this is a transition period and should be encouraged by the early signs of change that were seen in this game.

We are now trying to play complete football instead of heavy possession based, which has stifled our ability to be an attacking threat in the past. What has become even more apparent is that we need to recruit in forward and wide areas as we lack a cutting edge at the sharp end of the pitch. Leko’s contract is expiring in the summer and will hopefully be renewed along with a few new faces in offensive positions.

On one final note, best wishes go out to our captain Alex Gilbey who is receiving long awaited treatment for a groin injury. Fair play to him for soldiering on as long as he did without anyone knowing.