BOSS Nelson Jardim believes Newport County AFC’s backs-to-the-wall clean sheet in the 2-0 win at Gillingham showed the character of his squad.

The Exiles ended a three-game losing streak in style by winning at Priestfield Stadium against a side with a considerable budget who are tipped to be in the mix for promotion.

Wales Under-21s defender Matt Baker, a Kent native, scored the opener with a superb volley and then Kyle Hudlin’s clinical finish ensure they went into the break two goals to the good.

Gillingham came flying out in the second half and ramped up the pressure but they failed to get back into the game despite finishing with a shot count of 25.

“I’m really satisfied with that, this win was a really big one for us,” said head coach Jardim, whose side travelled to Kent after losing 3-1 at Bradford, 1-0 at Harrogate and 3-0 to Chesterfield at Rodney Parade.

BOSS: Newport County head coach Nelson JardimBOSS: Newport County head coach Nelson Jardim (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

“This win goes entirely to the fans. I know they have been disappointed, especially with the last game.

“I think they deserved this win. There were over 100 fans who made the long journey for a night game. I want to thank them for their support.

“This was the game we needed to bounce back. The boys showed that character that we need.

“Coming up here and defending like this, especially at the end of the game, was really pleasing. Everyone was at their best and it gives us something to build on.

“Both goals were good goals, but that comes after good teamwork. It was all about the team and their spirit to leave everything out there at the end.

“These boys have been brilliant every day. It’s not easy to go through spells of defeats. It’s where you show the type of person and the character that you’ve got.

“I can assure everyone, and the fans, that if they stick with us and be patient with us then we will only get better.”

County, who are 13th on 18 points, return to Newport this weekend to face a Fleetwood side who lost 1-0 at home to Crewe on Tuesday night after conceding a late penalty.

The Cod Army, relegated from League One last season, are two points back on the Exiles but have a pair of games in hand.