Notts County opened their League Two campaign with a 1-1 draw at Rodney Parade, as Jodi Jones’ second-half penalty cancelled out an early goal from Newport County.
Martin Paterson’s first competitive game as head coach saw ten summer signings feature in the matchday squad, with five handed starts. Kelle Roos began in goal behind a back three of Sonny Aljofree, Matty Platt, and Jacob Bedeau. Barry Cotter and Kellan Gordon occupied the wing-back roles, with captain Matt Palmer and Tom Iorpenda anchoring midfield. Conor Grant and Jodi Jones supported Matthew Dennis up front.
Kick-off was delayed due to a medical emergency in the crowd, with the game beginning at 4pm. When play got underway, Notts quickly took control.
The Magpies struck the woodwork early when Barry Cotter’s low cross was met by Conor Grant, whose first-time effort came back off the bar. Minutes later, Tom Iorpenda steered an effort narrowly wide after a deflection fell into his path.
Notts pressed relentlessly and were denied a strong penalty shout when Aljofree looked to be held back while trying to reach a rebound. The referee waved play on.
Newport struggled to keep possession as Notts dictated the tempo. Jones forced a good save from Nik Tzanev before half-time, his driven effort pushed wide at the near post.
Despite Notts enjoying 70% of possession and winning the corner count 6 to 2, they fell behind shortly after the restart. A long throw into the area was not dealt with and Gerard Garner headed in from close range.
Paterson responded with a double substitution, introducing Keanan Bennetts and Oliver Norburn. The game became more scrappy, but Notts continued to push forward.
Their persistence was rewarded in the 64th minute. Norburn lifted a ball over the top for Dennis, who was brought down inside the area by Matt Baker. The referee pointed to the spot and Jones stepped up to fire a left-footed penalty into the bottom-left corner, sending Tzanev the wrong way.
Newport almost regained the lead when Michael Reindorf struck the post from a tight angle, but Notts responded well. Dennis showed strength to chase down a long pass and work a shooting chance, though his effort was saved.
As the clock ticked down, Paterson made further changes. Curtis Edwards and Jayden Luker replaced Cotter and Jones, with Maz Kouhyar coming on for Dennis shortly after.
Despite late pressure and six minutes of added time, Notts were unable to find a winner. The match ended with the points shared, though Notts will feel they were the better side.
With more shots, more corners, and clear dominance in possession, the performance offered positives for Paterson and his side as they begin their League Two campaign.
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