Newport County vs Exeter City Match Recap - Nov 11, 2025

Exeter City Edges Newport County in EFL Trophy Clash, Proving Their Form is No Fluke

Exeter City secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Newport County at Rodney Parade, continuing their impressive run in the EFL Trophy. The win not only solidifies Exeter's position in the tournament but also highlights the contrasting fortunes of both teams as they navigate a challenging season. Ed Turns emerged as the hero for Exeter, scoring the decisive goal just after halftime, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.

Exeter's recent form has been nothing short of remarkable. With this victory, they have now won three of their last five matches, including a thrilling 4-3 encounter against Arsenal U21 in the previous round of the EFL Trophy. The attacking prowess displayed in that match carried over into this fixture, as Exeter dominated possession with 63%, a stark contrast to Newport's struggles to maintain control. This possession advantage allowed Exeter to dictate the pace of the game, creating more opportunities and ultimately leading to their victory.

Newport County, on the other hand, has been grappling with inconsistency. Their last five matches tell a story of highs and lows, with a recent 2-4 defeat against Walsall serving as a painful reminder of their defensive vulnerabilities. Despite a solid win against Harrogate Town earlier in the month, Newport's inability to string together consistent performances has left them searching for answers. The team managed only 37% possession against Exeter, reflecting their ongoing struggles to assert themselves in midfield.

The statistics from this match paint a clear picture of the disparity between the two sides. Exeter registered 11 total shots compared to Newport's 9, but more telling was the difference in shots on goal: 7 for Exeter versus just 3 for Newport. This disparity underscores Exeter's attacking efficiency and Newport's defensive frailties. Newport's defense has been under scrutiny, and this match did little to alleviate concerns, as they conceded numerous chances and struggled to contain Exeter's forward line.

Jayden Wareham, who has been a key player for Exeter this season, continued to be a threat throughout the match. His ability to create space and link up play was evident, and he remains a player to watch as Exeter looks to build on this momentum. Meanwhile, Newport's Bobby Kamwa and Gerard Garner, who have shown flashes of brilliance in recent matches, were unable to make a significant impact against a resolute Exeter defense.

The tactical battle between managers Gary Caldwell and David Hughes played out as expected, with Caldwell opting for a formation that maximized his team's attacking potential. The 3-4-2-1 setup allowed Exeter to exploit the flanks and create overloads in key areas. In contrast, Hughes' 4-3-3 formation struggled to cope with Exeter's movement and fluidity, leading to gaps that were exploited throughout the match.

As the match progressed, it became clear that Newport needed to find a way back into contention. However, their inability to convert possession into meaningful chances was evident. They managed only 288 accurate passes compared to Exeter's 540, highlighting their struggles in transitioning from defense to attack. This lack of creativity in midfield has been a recurring theme for Newport, and it will need addressing if they hope to turn their season around.

The consequences of this result are significant for both teams. For Exeter City, this victory reinforces their status as contenders in the EFL Trophy and provides a much-needed boost in confidence as they look ahead to their next fixtures. They have shown resilience and adaptability, traits that will serve them well as they navigate the challenges of the season.

Conversely, Newport County must regroup quickly. With only one win in their last five matches, they find themselves at a crossroads. The pressure is mounting on Hughes to find solutions that can stabilize the team and restore confidence among players and fans alike. The upcoming fixtures will be crucial for Newport as they seek to regain their footing and avoid slipping further down the standings.

Reflecting on my earlier predictions for this match, I must admit I underestimated Exeter's ability to maintain their form against a struggling Newport side. The metrics hinted at this turnaround, and they did not lie. As we move forward in this tournament, it will be fascinating to see how both teams respond to this pivotal moment in their seasons.

In conclusion, Exeter City's victory over Newport County serves as a testament to their current form and tactical acumen. With players like Turns stepping up when it counts, they are poised for success in the EFL Trophy. Meanwhile, Newport must confront their challenges head-on if they hope to turn their season around and reclaim their competitive edge. The road ahead is fraught with obstacles, but every match presents an opportunity for redemption.