TO SAY Newport County returned to the Football League in style on Saturday would be a giant understatement.

While I fully appreciate I work in an industry where hyperbole and sweeping statements aren’t generally in short supply, it really would be a stretch to try to overhype the Exiles’ triumphant return to the elite 92.

I can only hope that the majority of you – I appreciate there are a minority determined to moan come rain or come shine – enjoyed yourselves as much as I did as the Exiles gave an indication that they can certainly compete in the fourth tier.

The atmosphere at Rodney Parade exceeded any I’ve experienced covering the club, including the 2-0 win over Havant that saw Newport win the Conference South, and including last season’s play-off success over Grimsby at Rodney Par-ade.

The entire ground was rocking from 3pm on Saturday and so many things I saw on the day added to the occasion immeasurably.

The commemorative programme sold for the contest at just £5 was a complete triumph for the club. Not in 25-years of going to games have I seen a better value, better put together item for sale.

I appreciate the temporarily reduced capacity in the ground meant some were unable to get in, and that’s unfortunate. The fans delivered in a big way for Newport and they responded with a brilliant performance, ensuring a genuine day of glory and success on and off the field.

We even then had the excitement and novelty of seeing the Exiles on the Football League show and the fact that they were the main story.

With the almost sickening nervous tension from Wembley last season absent on Saturday, I found it an even more enjoyable experience and I’m certain it will live long in the memory.

So, congratulations to everyone who played a part in producing such a great day.

It really is going to be a special season.