NEWPORT County AFC need to repeat their determination in defence that earned a ninth League Two clean sheet at Wimbledon when they take to the field in Cumbria this afternoon.

The Exiles won 2-0 at Plough Lane last weekend thanks to goals by Bryn Morris and Kyle Jameson, then a strong effort at the other end.

More of the same will be needed against a Barrow side that possess plenty of attacking talent, despite the data.

The Bluebirds are sixth largely thanks to their defensive solidity – only leaders Mansfield can beat their tally of 40 conceded – but they are 14th for goals scored (52) and 18th for shots per game.

They fired a blank in a goalless draw with Harrogate last time out but can call on former County favourite and 2022 golden boot winner Dom Telford, Cole Stockton, Kian Spence, Emile Acquah and ex-Exile Jamie Proctor scored a double in midweek in a reserve team game against Bolton.

South Wales Argus: Former County loanee Jamie Proctor in action for BarrowFormer County loanee Jamie Proctor in action for Barrow (Image: PA)

“Barrow are flying, they are a good team and Pete Wild is a top manager as well. He sets his teams up really well and they will be disciplined and organised,” said County manager Coughlan.

“Pete’s teams are hard-working, they will be a danger at set pieces, they will have some size and presence.

“He gets the best out of his players, they have some experienced lads and it will be a really tough game.

“From the game at Rodney Parade and the footage of them, they always create chances. We will have to defend our box well, be up for it and at them. If we don’t more than match them then we will be in trouble.”

Wild was also complimentary when discussing the Exiles.

“They’re a team that’s done really well this season. Graham has done an unbelievable job there,” he said.

“I’ve watched them a lot this week and they can cause us some big problems.

“They’re a very athletic side, so we need to make sure that we match them with our own athleticism."