FA Cup means everything to us, says Exiles ace Christian Jolley

County have won seven out of nine games at Rodney Parade this season and Jolley insists they have no intention of letting Conference side Braintree Town ruining that record.

And after a shock home defeat to Yate Town last season, the Exiles are desperate for a run in the world’s oldest cup competition.

“We’ve been very strong at home and the FA Cup is massive for us,” said the 25-year-old.

“Last year we got derailed by losing to Yate so it is massively important that we get the job done and get to the next round.

“Everyone is doing well and you’ve got to justify your place in the team so this is another opportunity to shine,” he added.

“Every game is intense and you need to make sure you keep that form going. You can’t pick and choose your games and we approach every one as a cup final.”

Following successive home wins over Portsmouth, 3-0 in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy on Tuesday, and Hartlepool United, 2-0 in League Two on Friday, he is confident of more success.

“We take one game at a time but this is a tough place to come,” he said. “The fans are rocking, especially when we give them an excuse to get louder, which we seem to be doing a lot at the moment.

“We were very professional against Hartlepool. I don’t think we were as fluent as we were against Portsmouth but we done the job.

“We started fast and it’s a great result because they’re flying at the moment.

“They’re a good side so 2-0 at home is a good result and the clean sheet is massive as well.”

And Jolley believes he is starting to get back to his best after recovering from a painful groin injury.

“I’ve played three games in seven days now and before the operation I wouldn’t have been able to stand up after a game so I’m really happy,” he said.

“I haven’t had any reaction and I’m feeling good. I think in another couple of games I’ll be there and as long as I can keep getting minutes I’ll be stronger and sharper with every game.”