NEWPORT County AFC eased to a 2-0 win over Pontypridd United as they ramp up preparations for the start of League Two.

The Exiles enjoyed a 4-1 win over Ardal SE Undy AFC on Saturday and backed that up with a comfortable success against their Cymru South opponents at USW Sports Park in Treforest.

County, in a first game since Nelson Jardim was confirmed as head coach, bossed possession throughout - at times a little too deep - when giving game time to seniors, youngsters and a handful of trialists.

Midfielder Bryn Morris opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a neat finish from a cross by right-back Joe Thomas.

DRIVE: Nathan Wood goes forward for Newport County at PontypriddDRIVE: Nathan Wood goes forward for Newport County at Pontypridd (Image: Darren Griffiths/Huw Evans Agency)

The Exiles grew into the contest with Aaron Wildig a growing influence with one-touch football and Kiban Rai and Luke Jephcott going close.

The second came just past the hour and it was a cracker by new boy Cameron Antwi, who looked sharp alongside fellow summer signing Kai Whitmore in the centre of midfield (granted, against Cymru South opposition).

The former Cardiff City midfielder turned on the edge of the box before firing into the top left to double the lead.

Chances were wasted for a third, with trialist Hamzad Kargbo and Nelson Sanca failing to hit the target with close-range headers, while Nick Townsend was untroubled at the other end as the game drifted to a finish.

The Exiles continue to step things up on Saturday when they travel to Cymru Premier Barry Town United before a big test on Tuesday in a behind closed doors game against Bristol City at the Championship club’s training ground.