Newport produced a breathtaking late comeback to defeat Hamworthy United 4-2 this afternoon and keep their Wessex Division 1 play-off push firmly alive.
Port were immediately tested by the Hammers and fell behind after 5 minutes when a low cross deflected off a defender and crept over the line to give the hosts the lead (1-0). Newport were rocked again on 21 minutes as Tyler Rudd finished a slick move from outside the area to double Hamworthy’s advantage (2-0).
Facing a two-goal deficit, Newport showed resilience and gradually worked their way back into the contest. On 37 minutes, a corner delivery found Jez Conway, whose header proved too strong for the goalkeeper to keep out and gave Port a crucial lifeline before the break (2-1).
Half Time: Hamworthy United 2-1 Newport IW
The visitors emerged with renewed intensity after the interval and were level within 12 minutes. Defensive hesitation allowed Ji Nash time and space on the edge of the area, and the forward curled an excellent finish beyond the keeper to restore parity (2-2).
With momentum firmly with Port, pressure continued to build. Thompsett headed wide from a corner as Newport sensed the opportunity for something more.
As the clock ticked into the final minute, the comeback was completed in dramatic fashion. Patient build-up play ended with Nash blasting a strike from outside the box into the bottom corner to put Newport ahead for the first time (2-3).
There was still time for one final twist. Deep into stoppage time, Nash burst clear on the counter and coolly lobbed the advancing goalkeeper to complete his hat-trick and seal an unforgettable away win (2-4).
Full Time: Hamworthy United 2-4 Newport IW
Newport IW: Pitman, Grace, Thompsett, Hancott, Watterson (c), Holbrook, Nash, Walsh, Conway, Butcher, Benford. Subs: Egerton-Read, Weeks, Linington, Young, Mazambara.
The victory keeps Newport 10th in Wessex Division 1, now just 6 points behind Frimley Green in the final play-off position, with 3 games in hand.
Port next play away to Ringwood Town in Wessex Division 1 on Tuesday (3rd February) with kick off at 19:30.
The Wessex Premier games featuring Isle of Wight sides Cowes Sports against Sherborne Town and East Cowes Victoria against Christchurch were postponed due to waterlogged pitches.
The Yachtsmen are in action again on Tuesday when they play perennial opponents Laverstock & Ford in Wiltshire with kick off at 19:45. The same day, East Cowes Victoria travel to Southampton to face Millbrook in the Wessex Premier with kick off also at 19:45.
