FA Cup: Newport to face Man United in next round
Eastleigh 1 - 3 Newport County
Newport County secured a spot in the FA Cup fourth round and a lucrative tie against Manchester United by defeating Eastleigh 3-1.
Aaron Wildig gave Newport an early lead, skillfully gliding past goalkeeper Joe McDonnell following great play from the County.
Paul McCallum equalized for Eastleigh after 48 minutes with a well-placed half-volley, levelling the score against Newport. However, Newport's James Clarke regained the lead with a header on the hour mark, and the victory was sealed by Will Evans, their top scorer.
The televised match in the fourth round is expected to bring significant financial rewards, around £400,000, to Newport.
They are set to face Manchester United at Rodney Parade on Sunday 28th January, showcasing their potential for causing upsets, as demonstrated by previous victories against Leicester City, Middlesbrough and a draw with Tottenham Hotspur.
Newport class shows
While this game was anticipated as a historic moment for Eastleigh, it was Newport who dominated the early stages. Despite struggling in their previous encounter two weeks ago, Newport quickly took the lead at the Silverlake Stadium. A long ball from goalkeeper Nick Townsend found its way into the Eastleigh box, resulting in Wildig's goal just three minutes into the match.
Although Eastleigh levelled the score early in the second half through McCallum, Newport responded positively. Clarke's header from Shane McLoughlin's corner reinstated their lead in the 60th minute. Newport extended their advantage when Evans' left-foot shot found the net, putting them two goals ahead with 11 minutes remaining.
Despite Eastleigh's late efforts to equalize, Newport's defence held firm, securing their place in the fourth round of the FA Cup.
Preparations for 4th round start now
Work has begun ✅#NCAFC pic.twitter.com/QCvutN6OV1
— Newport County AFC (@NewportCounty) January 17, 2024
A post on the Newport website said: "Another 1,000 passionate members of the Amber Army will get the chance to back the Exiles against Wrexham and Manchester United with the erection of a temporary stand behind the North Terrace. Construction of the uncovered stand will get underway tomorrow afternoon (Wednesday) in time for the League Two clash with Wrexham on Saturday after the Welsh derby sold out last week.
Read more from the Newport website: New Stand boost for Wrexham & Man Utd - News - Newport County (newport-county.co.uk)
Thomas, a Newport fan, added: "Many people believe that Manchester United will win easily. They probably will but the experience of having a top club coming to Rodney parade will generate a lot for the club. This is what the FA Cup is all about."
A lot of people were talking about lucrative the match will turn out to be. Jamie Thompson, another Newport fan, added: "That money will do a lot of good for the club. I am already excited for what the future brings to the club, even if we don't progress against Manchester United."
Disappointment for Eastleigh
Gary, an Eastleigh fan, told us: "Well, it wasn't to be on the night for us. This FA Cup has been fantastic for us, and I'm already hopeful that we can build on this."
The @EastleighFC Twitter account posted: "Spitfires' fans, thank you all for your unwavering support throughout our Emirates FA Cup journey. We will bounce back!"
Spitfires' fans, thank you all for your unwavering support throughout our Emirates FA Cup journey. 🙌
— Eastleigh FC (@EastleighFC) January 17, 2024
We WILL bounce back! 👊 pic.twitter.com/kzHJwKZWhw
Click here for more FA Cup news: Magic of the FA Cup: 2023/2024 (eurosuperfootball.blogspot.com)