NELSON Jardim praised the character of his Newport County AFC players for a comeback 3-1 win against Doncaster that helps in his Rodney Parade rebuild.

The Exiles ended their 10-game losing streak with a stunning fightback against a Rovers side tipped to be in the League Two promotion shake-up.

Doncaster led 1-0 at the break thanks to Owen Bailey’s stunning finish but County levelled quickly after the restart through Bobby Kamwa.

Summer signing from Haverfordwest Kai Whitmore put the hosts in front with a rocket from distance in the 66th minute and then defender Matt Baker quickly slammed in to make it 3-1.

Doncaster applied some late pressure but County, who suffered a cruel 3-2 defeat to Cheltenham on opening weekend after a 96th-minute winner, held firm in front of fervent support to record their first win since Wimbledon in mid-March.

“It’s a huge win for the club, but me and the players want to dedicate it to the fans – they were brilliant,” said head coach Jardim.

“We had to show character again. At Cheltenham, being 2-0 down we showed that resilience, and today again.

THREE: Courtney Baker-Richardson celebrates Matt Baker's goal for Newport CountyTHREE: Courtney Baker-Richardson celebrates Matt Baker's goal for Newport County (Image: Gareth Everett)

“In the first half we were not competing the way we wanted to, but in the second half we played really good game.

“You could see the quality of our players and the character and desire to go and win the game.

“Doncaster are a good team, they played some good football and they are very well organised, so winning against them is even better for us. It means a lot.

“It’s another step to make the boys believe in what we are doing and what we are building. It’s always easier to build anything on top of a win.”

County reaped the rewards of a change from a flat back four to wing-backs, giving Jardim food for thought ahead of Saturday’s home fixture with Accrington, who suffered frustration in added time when Harrogate made it 3-3.

The Exiles hope to have influential midfielder Bryn Morris, who was doing pre-match sprints on the pitch before Doncaster, back in the selection mix after he missed the start of the season with tendonitis.

Winger Michael Spellman and forward Oliver Greaves, who scored on his EFL debut at Cheltenham, are also set to return this week after leg injuries. 

Jardim has also previously expressed his desire to add to his squad in the transfer window before the August 30 deadline with owner Huw Jenkins leading the recruitment drive.