http://pieandmushypeas.blogspot.co.uk/2013/09/newport-county-fc.html

Left at 6.20 got 6.50 from B Sth and Circle to Paddington, for the 7.45 to (43126) Newport arr 9.30, but stayed on to Cardiff arr 9.47. Walked to the old Arcade and discovered a large Ian Allan shop and browsed the shelves. Returned to the station for the 10.39 (150245) to Ebbw Vale Parkway arr 11.31. Was going to the town but no bus to get me there so returned to train leaving at 11.40 to Rogerstone. This journey was new track for me! At Rogerstone asked a lady where the bus stop to Newport was and she said to join her as she was going there. Bus came along as we got to the bottom of the road and she called out to stop him. Fare £1.50 (can''t use pass in Wales) got off at the large bus station. Walked across the fine pedestrian bridge over the Usk to the Rodney Road ground and picked up my pre ordered ticket £14 and prog £3.50. Walked back into town by road bridge to the Old Murenger House pub for a pint of Sam Smiths Old Brewery bitter £2.50 and chicken & chips £4.95. Then back to the ground to take my seat no 20 in the Bisley stand which was well behind the goal line. The pitch is shared with Newport-Gwent rugby club which I guess uses more off the grass area available. The game was poor little or no attempt at possession play, more kick upfield, head it back, and so it went on. Newport scored in the first half from a header from a free kick. And Mansfield equalised in the second half, but as both goals were scored at the other end of the pitch it was difficult to see them go in. The sun had shone most of the day and it was nice and warm where I sat. The lady next to me travels from Swindon to every game, home and away. After this grim display I can''t think why. Oh, and each team had a player sent off towards the end of a fairly rugged encounter. While on Newport station waiting for the 17.39, Tornado steamed thru'' with a special to Waterloo. 43009 arrived on time and back at Padd 19.32. Circle and 20.07 at Vic, B Sth 20.25, 138 and home at 20.35. Deb Richard and Lauren there as Mark, their neighbour is having one of his noisy parties. Alisha was with Alice for a sleepover.

Probably the worst view of a game we've ever had and paid £20 per ticket for the privelege. The game was so poor it probably didn't matter. Best thing about this one ......... we'll never have to go back to Newport or even to Wales to watch another game thank god.

My first visit to Rodney Parade. An end-to-end, feisty game between two physical teams, which saw plenty of chances and two red cards. A memorable contest.