Apart from our first season back against accrington have we won any of our opening games.dont think we have.

Yes that’s right

I am optimistic for the season but not overly optimistic for Saturday. I'm sure the EFL computer has some sort of programme that uses previous history to work out the fixtures.

I remember playing Mansfield home first game a few years back and that didn't go too well. It had to be them didn't it. They will be up for it as well because of the play off semi final games. Could have done with playing them later on in the season.

It might temper the enthusiasm of those who think we are going to sprint unopposed to promotion like our birthright so justly dictates it’ll be difficult, anyone sensible knows they’re a tough side to beat.

I have a similar view to Pems. Optimistic about the season but not going to get too hung up about any individual league result - 0:6 against Yeovil anyone?

Much as I would love it Keeganesque if we beat Mansfield on Saturday but I fully expect the usual rollercoaster ride to commence and long may it continue.

I think with a number of new players we've brought in, Mansfield will be a good stiff test, nice and early.
I cant think.of a better first match.

I'm looking forward to seeing how we line up. I'm going for something like this;

Looks a bit too attacking to me and not sure about the two goalkeepers concept.

Amberexile wrote:Looks a bit too attacking to me and not sure about the two goalkeepers concept.

If you look at the picture from the left, we have 1 keeper and 7 defenders, 1 midfielder and 2 up top. About right considering the number of defenders in the squad. Not much getting through the brick wall defending

Beechwood Boy wrote:

Amberexile wrote:Looks a bit too attacking to me and not sure about the two goalkeepers concept.

If you look at the picture from the left, we have 1 keeper and 7 defenders, 1 midfielder and 2 up top. About right considering the number of defenders in the squad. Not much getting through the brick wall defending

That was the intention

I always look at Mansfield as a barometer - if you can do well against them, you can hold your head high in whatever division you're in. They always play a very physical game and it's important to match that right from the off.

First games are always unpredictable. So many odd results until teams settle down. Haven’t got a clue what will happen!

Amberexile wrote:Looks a bit too attacking to me and not sure about the two goalkeepers concept.

I think your wit is wasted. I just think the lone centre half will be overworked and he is a bit too far forward for my liking.

rncfc wrote:I'm looking forward to seeing how we line up. I'm going for something like this;

If you keep your eyes in a “stare” and move your ipad/phone nearer and nearer there comes a gratifying point when Podge and Matt come back to help out that overworked defence.

It's funny, I was thinking the same. When I look at the fixtures, Newport away is up there with the most difficult. Part of me thinks that it would be better to face you later in the season, but then we have done well in opening day games against you.

We've improved our squad from last season and are hoping for a better outcome this term, but I don't have much optimism for Saturday.