WHISPER it folks but the new-look Newport County is starting to look a really decent side, after their win at the Hand Stadium in Somerset last night.

Before the men in the white coats batter down the doors at the Argus, yes it was only against Clevedon Town and a pre-season friendly but the new additions are starting to look the part.

The little magician, Jason Bowen, lit up this match for an hour with a full repertoire of party tricks, including one sublime turn that had the entire grandstand scratching their heads in bewilderment.

Scott Young, in the anchor midfield role, rarely wasted a pass, while Carl Wilson-Denis was menacing up front. Throw in Jonathan Coates, who has a wicked left peg and Kevin Aherne-Evans looking good and centre-backs Darren Jones and Scott Morgan developing a great understanding and optimism is all the rage at Spytty Park.

There was even the rare sight of a Jamie Moralee goal. The striker popped up to nod home the rebound after t impressive Neil Passmore went a mazy run and fired a shot against the bar.

The fact that it took 51 minutes to come was something of a miracle. The first period saw more one-way traffic than Bristol city centre with only Clevedon goalkeeper Pete Trego and some bad luck prevented a scoreline like the 10-1 last week at Abergavenny Thursdays.

The second period saw more subs than the Royal Navy fleet but County boss Peter Nicholas admitted that this was his new side's best showing thus far, without getting too carried away.

He said: "The side is getting there and the fitness is coming. We played some nice football and we are passing the ball from the back. There is a bit to go but things are taking shape."

l There are tickets remaining for the Blondie tribute concert at the social club on Saturday night, priced £5, available at the club.