Andy Sampson’s Newport IW FC came away from HMS Temiraire last night with a third pre-season win and a third successive clean sheet, this time against HMS Royal Marines.
Playing on a difficult 3G pitch, it was the Royal Marines who settled in straight away. A free kick on the edge of the area was tipped over the bar from the out-stretched Cameron Farley in spectacular style.
It wasn’t long before the Port found their feet and after 15mins a through ball found the young Jimmy Burton, who held off two players and beautifully lobbed the helpless Marines keeper from 20 yards.
Sampson used all six substitutes in the second half but it didn’t take long for Port to double their lead; a corner from Josh Maloney was headed in from close range by Burton for his second.
Liam Bennett, surrounded by three defenders, burst into the box but just when he was preparing to shoot, lost his footing and fell, badly cutting his knee on the 3G surface.
Sub keeper Aaron Bundy made two impressive saves in the second half, but Newport held on and remained calm despite some late pressure from the home side.
FT: HMS Royal Marines 0-2 Newport IW
